;' 


HI  S  T  O  R  Y 


^egiment,  ffetiflital  (farlr, 

STATE   OF   NEW   YORK, 

DURING  THE  WAR  OF  THE  REBELLION : 


A    PRELIMINARY  CHAPTER  ON   THE  ORIGIN    AND   EARLY   HISTORY   OF  THE 
REGIMENT,   A   SUMMARY   OF   ITS  HISTORY  SINCE  THE   WAR, 


ROLL    OF    HONOR, 

COMPRISING    BRIEF   SKETCHES   OF   THE    SERVICES    RENDERED    BY 

MEMBERS   OF   THE   REGIMENT   IN   THE  ARMY   AND 

NAVY   OF   THE   UNITED   STATES. 


BY  WILLIAM   SWINTON,  A.  M., 

A0THOR    OP     "CAMPAIGNS     OF    THE    ARMY    OF    THE    POTOMAC,"    ETC. 


ILLUSTRATED  BY  THOMAS  NAST. 


Net»  fork  ana  Boston: 
FIELDS,    OSGOOD,    &    CO. 

1870. 





Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1869,  by 

FIELDS,.    OSGOOD,     &     CO., 
in  the  Clerk's  Office  of  the  District  Court  for  the  District  of  Massachusetts. 


UNIVERSITY  PRESS  :  WELCH,  BIGELOW,  &  Co., 
CAMBRIDGE. 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER    I.  pAOm 

ORIGIN  OF  THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT        .»••..        1 

CHAPTER    II. 
THE  SUMMONS  TO  THE  FIELD 23 

CHAPTER    III. 

THE  MARCH  TO  THE  WAR 31 

* 

CHAPTER   IV. 
THE  NEW  PATH  48 

CHAPTER   V. 
THE  SEVENTH  AT  ANNAPOLIS -.67 

CHAPTER    YI. 
A  DISPUTED  COMMAND .85 

CHAPTER    VII. 
THE  MARCH  TO  WASHINGTON 94 

CHAPTER    VIII. 
RESULTS  OF  THE  MARCH 110 

CHAPTER    IX. 
THE  SEVENTH  IN  THE  CAPITOL 127 

CHAPTER    X. 
CAMP  CAMERON  164 


50*711 


iv  CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER    XI. 
THE  SEVENTH  IN  VIRGINIA 193 

CHAPTER    XII. 
A  MISSION  ACCOMPLISHED 208 

CHAPTER    XIII. 
OFFERS  OF  SERVICE        .  225 

CHAPTER   XIY. 
THE  BALTIMORE  CAMPAIGN 232 

CHAPTER    XT. 
FORT  FEDERAL  HILL      . 247 

CHAPTER    XYI. 
THE  MARYLAND  CAMPAIGN  OF  1863 292 

CHAPTER    XVII. 
AT  FREDERICK        .        » 320 

CHAPTER    XVIII. 
THE  DRAFT  RIOTS  .        .        .        .      t,. 349 

CHAPTER    XIX. 
SINCE  THE  WAR  373 


ROLL  OF  HONOR 385 


APPENDIX. 

I.    THE  MARCH  TO  WASHINGTON 495 

II.    THE  MARYLAND  CAMPAIGN      ...        .        .        .    496 


HISTORY  OF  THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


ry  ago, 
all's    " 


CHAPTER   1. 

ORIGIN    OP   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

N  the  southerly  corner  of 
Fulton  and  Nassau  Streets, 
in  the  city  of  New  York, 
there  stood,  half  a  centu- 
the  famous  Stone- 
Shakespeare  Tav 
ern."  To  that  favorite 
hostelry,  as  a  birthplace, 
can  be  traced  more  than 
one  of  the  institutions  and 
societies  now  flourishing  in 
the  New  York  of  our  day ; 
and  thither  we  must  go 
back  some  twoscore  years 
for  the  origin  of  the  "  Sev 
enth  Regiment  New  York 
State  National  Guard." 

In  one  view,  we  should 
resort  to  a  still  earlier  pe 
riod  in  the  history  of  the   State  and  of  the  Republic  to 
find   the  fountain-head   of  the    Seventh    Regiment.      For, 
since  this  corps  was  fashioned,  not  out  of  new  material,  but 
out  of  a  militia  organization  already  existing,  —  to  wit,  the 
"Eleventh  Regiment  of  Artillery,"  —  it  would  be  neces- 
i 


2  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

sary,  in  like  manner,  to  trace  this  "  Eleventh  "  to  the  year 
of  its  creation,  namely,  the  year  1812 ;  while,  pursuing  the 
pedigree  of  the  "  Eleventh  "  itself,  we  should,  erelong,  find 
ourselves  among  the  military  antiquities  of  the  bygone  cen 
tury  and  the  war  of  the  Revolution. 

Such  genealogic  researches  are  aside  from  our  present 
purpose.  Suffice  it  to  say  that,  in  the  year  1824,  there 
existed  a  so-called  "  Eleventh  Regiment  of  New  York  State 
Artillery,"  and  that  this  regiment  consisted,  as  did  most 
of  the  militia  regiments  of  that  day,  of  two  battalions ; 
whereof  one  was  artillery  proper,  the  other  infantry.  Of 
the  four  infantry  companies,  the  First  was  commanded  by 
Captain  Irad  Hawley,  the  Second  by  Captain  John  Telfair, 
the  Third  by  Captain  William  B.  Curtis,  and  the  Fourth  by 
Captain  Howard  A.  Simons. 

Now,  on  the  evening  of  the  25th  of  August,  1824,  the 
officers  of  the  four  companies  of  the  Infantry  Battalion  of 
the  old  Eleventh  Regiment,  at  a  meeting  held  at  the 
Shakespeare  Tavern,  adopted  a  resolution  to  the  effect  that 
the  said  battalion  "  be  hereafter  known  and  distinguished 
by  the  name  of  National  Guards."  The  origin  of  this 
name,  for  so  many  years  the  worthy  designation  of  the 
Seventh  Regiment,  and  of  that  organization  exclusively,  is 
associated  with  a  historic  event  of  singular  interest.  A 
few  days  previous  to  the  above-mentioned  meeting  (namely, 
the  16th  of  August,  1824),  there  had  occurred  a  parade  of 
the  New  York  militia  for  the  reception  of  La  Fayette  on 
his  last  visit  to  this  country.  On  this  occasion  the  illustri 
ous  soldier  and  patriot  reviewed  the  forces  at  the  Battery. 
While  the  troops  were  awaiting  the  arrival  of  La  Fayette,  a 
number  of  the  officers  of  the  Eleventh  had  gathered  togeth 
er,  and  the  conversation  chanced  to  turn  on  a  project  which 
had  long  engaged  their  attention,  to  wit,  the  independent 
organization  of  the  Infantry  Battalion.  It  happened  that  a 
good  deal  of  difficulty  had  been  experienced  regarding  the 


ORIGIN   OF  THE   SEVENTH  KEGIMENT.  3 

choice  of  a  suitable  name.  On  this  occasion  reference  was 
made,  by  some  one  present,  to  La  Fayette's*  connection  with 
the  Paris  National  Guard,  when  immediately  Major  John 
D.  Wilson  asked  why  "  National  Guards  "  would  not  be  a 
good  name  for  the  proposed  corps  ?  This  electric  utterance 
at  once  crystallized  their  desires  in  a  fixed  purpose  and  on 
a  clear  ideal ;  and  when,  therefore,  a  few  days  later,  the 
gathering  at  the  Shakespeare  occurred,  the  resolution  to 
adopt  the  designation  of  "  National  Guards  "  was  enthu 
siastically  passed.  Its  promulgation  was  received  by  the 
members  of  the  corps  with  general  favor. 

It  remained  to  secure  the  permission  and  co-operation  of 
the  governor,  ex  officio  commander  of  the  State  militia.  The 
official  documents  requisite  to  the  perfect  organization  of 
the  corps,  and  its  recognition  as  an  independent  unit  in  the 
militia  force  of  the  State,  did  not  arrive  until  the  year  fol 
lowing  the  adoption  of  the  name  of  the  National  Guards. 
But,  meanwhile,  its  members  were  not  idle,  and  the  drills 
were  kept  up  with  marked  regularity.  Moreover,  the  first 
great  step  towards  the  completion  of  the  battalion  was 
taken  in  the  adoption,  on  the  30th  of  August,  of  the  famous 
gray  uniform.  Its  design  was  taken  from  the  neatly  fitting, 
single-breasted  gray  office-coat  of  Philetus  H.  Holt  (then 
a  private  in  the  Fourth  Company),  which  attracted  the  ai>- 
tention  of  Captain  Prosper  M.  Wetmore,  Acting  Brigade- 
Major,  and  Major  John  D.  Wilson,  as  a  suitable  model  for 
the  new  uniform.  It  was  proposed,  and  a  pattern  suit  com 
plete  was  exhibited  by  Major  Wilson  to  the  four  companies, 
separately  assembled  at  the  Shakespeare,  and  was  agreed 
to  by  the  members  with  great  unanimity.  A  coat  of  arms 
and  motto  were  designed  by  Corporal  Asher  Taylor,  of  the 
Fourth  Company,  who  has  ever  since  held  honored  con 
nection  with  the  regiment,  and  whose  esprit  de  corps  and 
enthusiasm  in  all  that  concerns  the  Seventh  and  its  wel 
fare  five-and-forty  years  have  not  been  able  to  quench.  The 


4  HISTOKY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

coat  of  arms  and  motto  were  approved  by  the  board  of 
officers  and  adopted  as  the  heraldic  insignia  of  the  corps. 
It  was  Asher  Taylor,  also,  who  first  wore  in  public  the  gray 
uniform. 

More  important  still,  to  the  original  four  companies  of  the 
battalion  were  presently  added  two  more,  under  Captains 
Lownds  and  Stevens.  The  interest  taken  by  these  gentle 
men  in  the  new  organization  began  with  the  inspiring  incident 
of  the  La  Fayette  review,  already  detailed.  On  that  occa 
sion  the  group  of  officers  was  joined  by  Oliver  M.  Lownds, 
Esq.,  a  popular  and  influential  citizen,  and  it  was  proposed 
to  him  that  he  should  raise  a  company  to  add  to  the  others 
in  forming  the  National  Guard.  The  proposition  was  made 
by  Linus  W.  Stevens,  who  then  commanded  a  company  in 
the  first  or  artillery  battalion  of  the  Eleventh,  and  who, 
"  being  dissatisfied  with  the  treatment  of  officials,  who  had 
neglected  to  provide  his  company  with  guns  for  artillery 
practice,"  had  purposed  retiring  from  the  militia  service, 
but  was  now  resolved  to  accept  a  commission  in  the  new 
organization.  With  the  spirit  of  generous  rivalry  that 
characterized  the  founders  of  the  corps,  Captain  Stevens 
agreed  to  waive  the  right  of  his  own  company  to  the  num 
ber  "  5  "  in  the  regiment,  and  to  come  in  as  number  "6," 
leaving  "  5"  to  the  company  to  be  raised  by  Mr.  Lownds. 

Such  was  the  personal  popularity  of  the  latter  gentleman 
that  he  soon  succeeded  in  enrolling  the  required  number ; 
and,  on  the  25th  of  December  of  the  same  year,  he  pre 
sented  his  company  as  a  Christmas  gift  to  the  National 
Guards.  It  was  admitted  as  the  Fifth  Company,  and,  be 
ing  composed  of  picked  men,  was  a  valuable  and  welcome 
addition  to  the  corps.  Captain  Stevens  was  allowed  to  se 
lect  twenty-four  of  the  best  men  and  one  officer  (Lieutenant 
J.  H,  Williams)  from  his  old  company  of  the  artillery  bat 
talion.  Two  days  after  the  admission  of  Captain  Lownds's 
company,  they  came  in  as  the  Sixth  Company. 


ORIGIN   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT.  5 

At  length,  on  the  27th  of  June,  1825,  an  order  was 
issued  by  the  Commander-in-Chief,  Governor  De  Witt 
Clinton,  instituting  the  battalion  of  the  National  Guards. 
This  liberated  the  corps  from  the  heterogeneous  association 
with  the  artillery  battalion,  but  the  change  actually  made 
did  not  prove  satisfactory.  The  order  separating  the  bat 
talion  from  the  Eleventh  Regiment  of  Artillery  directed  its 
consolidation  with  the  infantry  companies  of  the  Second 
Regiment.  This  arrangement  was  not  a  happy  one.  Diffi 
culties  very  soon  arose,  and  such  ill-feeling  was  engendered 
on  both  sides  that  the  National  Guard  determined  to  part 
company  with  its  associates.  Accordingly,  representations 
of  so  forcible  a  character  were  made  at  head-quarters,  that, 
in  the  following  October  (1825),  a  general  order  was  issued 
detaching  the  corps  and  organizing  it  into  a  separate  bat 
talion.  Having  now  legal  existence  as  a  battalion,  it  was 
entitled  to  a  Lieutenant-Colonel  and  a  Major.  On  the  18th 
of  October  a  meeting  was  held  for  the  election  of  these 
officers,  which  resulted  in  the  unanimous  choice  of  Prosper 
M.  Wetmore  as  Lieutenant-Colonel  and  Linus  W.  Stevens 
as  Major.  To  the  six  companies  already  mentioned  had 
been  added,  in  October,  another,  —  the  Seventh,  —  under 
Captain  Van  Buren.  It  now  required  but  one  more  com 
pany  to  raise  the  battalion  to  the  dignity  of  a  regiment,  — 
a  consummation  devoutly  wished  by  all  its  members. 
Accordingly,  on  the  10th  of  April  following,  the  Com 
mandant  detailed  the  following  gentlemen  to  organize  the 
new  company:  Lieutenant  Andrew  Warner,  of  Seventh 
Company,  to  be  Captain  ;  William  H.  Insley,  First  Lieu 
tenant;  and  William  P.  Millard,  Second  Lieutenant. 
With  such  spirit  and  energy  did  these  officers  enter  into 
this  duty,  that,  on  the  4th  of  May,  the  requisite  number 
was  enrolled  and  the  now  company  admitted  to  the  bat 
talion  as  the  Eighth  Company  of  the  National -Guard.  Be 
ing  informed  of  this,  Governor  De  Witt  Clinton,  two  days 


6  HISTORY   OF    THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

later,  —  namely,  the  6th  of  May,  1826,  —  issued  an  order 
organizing  the  battalion  into  a  regiment,  to  be  named  the 
"  Twenty-Seventh  Regiment  of  Artillery." 

So  much  of  mere  dry  chronology  it  has  been  necessary 
here  to  group  together,  that  we  may  the  better  grasp  the 
successive  steps  through  which  the  National  Guard  became 
a  regiment,  and  laid  the  broad  basis  of  its  historic  fame. 

If,  now,  we  hold  firmly  by  the  noble  appellation  National 
Guard,  it  will  prevent  our  becoming  confused  in  the  vary 
ing  technical  designations  of  the  corps.  We  have  seen  the 
memorable  circumstances  under  which  the  name  was  cho 
sen.  Well,  it  was  the  National  Guard  while  still  incorporated 
with  the  old  Eleventh  Artillery ;  it  was  the  National  Guard 
while  consolidated  with  the  Second  Regiment ;  and  it  was 
still  the  National  Guard  now  that  it  became  independent, 
and  was  dubbed  the  "  Twenty-Seventh  Regiment."  When, 
years  later,  it  had  become  the  "  Seventh,"  it  still  held  its 
proud  blazon  of  National  Guard.  Nor  was  it  ever  till  the 
Legislature,  in  1862,  filching  from  the  corps  its  "  good 
name,"  gave  this  designation  to  all  the  militia  of  the  State, 
that  the  Seventh  ceased  to  be  the  National  Guard.  Never 
theless,  if  we  shall  succeed  in  at  all  fitly  setting  forth  the 
history  of  this  regiment  in  the  late  war,  it  may  appear  by 
what  new  and  multiplied  titles  it  has  acquired  the  right  of 
retaining  the  baptismal  name  which  hallowed  its  birth  two- 
score  years  and  more  ago. 

The  regiment  having  now  attained  separate  identity,  it 
remained  to  choose  its  officers.  To  this  end  the  Command 
ant,  on  the  16th  of  May,  1826,  issued  the  first  "  Regimental 
Order,"  appointing  the  23d  of  the  same  month  for  the  elec 
tion.  Pursuant  to  this  order  the  officers  met  at  the  Shake 
speare ;  and  the  result  was  the  choice  of  Prosper  M.  Wet- 
more  as  Colonel,  Linus  W.  Stevens  as  Lieutenant-Colonel, 
and  John  Telfair  as  Major. 

The  selection  of  these  officers  gave  general  satisfaction, 


ORIGIN    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT.  7 

and  their  promotion  was  designed  as  a  tribute  of  respect 
and  appreciation  on  the  part  of  the  regiment.  Colonel 
Prosper  M.  Wetmore  had  formerly  been  Captain  of  the 
Fourth  Company,  and  at  the  time  our  history  opens  he  was 
Brigade-Major  of  Brigadier-General  Benedict's  staff.  He 
had  entered  very  warmly  into  the  project  for  the  organiza 
tion  of  the  National  Guard,  and  was  indefatigable  in 
promoting  the  growth  and  welfare  of  the  corps.  He,  re 
tained  his  position  as  Colonel  for  about  a  year,  and  resigned 
in  April,  1827.  Lieutenant-Colonel  Stevens  was,  as  has  al 
ready  appeared,  one  of  the  National  Guard's  early  and  most 
steadfast  friends  ;  and  we  shall  presently  have  occasion  to 
refer  to  the  relations  of  that  able  and  accomplished  officer 
with  the  regiment  he  loved  and  adorned.  Major  Telfair  is 
equally  entitled  to  the  honor  of  being  one  of  the  founders 
of  the  Seventh  Regiment.  He  had  passed  through  all  the 
grades  of  the  service ;  was  a  sergeant  during  the  war  of 
1812,  a  lieutenant  of  the  Second  Company  of  the  old 
Eleventh  Regiment  in  1820,  and  its  captain  in  1823.  He 
had  declined  the  majority  at  the  previous  election  in  1825, 
and  only  accepted  it  now  at  the  urgent  solicitation  of 
Colonel  Wetmore.  As  it  was,  he  did  not  hold  his  com 
mission  long,  for  he  resigned  on  the  20th  of  June  following, 
and  Howard  A.  Simons  was  elected  in  his  stead.  He  was 
greatly  beloved  by  the  Second  Company,  and  in  1833  he 
was  induced  to  resume  its  captaincy,  from  which  he  finally 
retired  in  1836.  Telfair  is  one  of  the  noblest  names  in  the 
bead-roll  of  the  regiment,  on  which  he  lavished  his  affec 
tions  and  his  fortune. 

The  National  Guard  paraded  for  the  first  time  as  a 
regiment  on  the  31st  of  May,  1826,  to  receive  an  elegant 
stand  of  colors  from  the  Mayor  of  New  York.  Asher  Tay 
lor,  in  his  interesting  "  Notes  on  the  Colors  of  the  National 
Guard,"  gives  the  following  agreeable  account  of  the  ori 
gin  of  these  colors  :  "  When  the  corps  was  detached  as  a 


8  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

separate  command,  the  subject  of  providing  suitable  colors 
for  it  had  engaged  the  early  attention  of  the  board  of 
officers ;  and  Captain  John  Telfair,  Captain  James  T. 
Flinn,  Lieutenant  Charles  B.  Spicer,  Adjutant  Andrew 
Warner,  and  Surgeon  Edward  P.  Marcellin  were  appointed 
a  committee  to  procure  a  standard  which  should  be  the 
banner  of  the  National  Guard.  The  committee  spent  some 
time  in  bowing  around  and  flirting  and  coquetting  among 
their  fair  friends,  in  the  hope  of  eliciting  an  offer  from 
some  of  them  to  embroider  and  present  a  standard  ;  and 
Young  Moustache  will  be  amazed  to  learn  that  all  their 
efforts  were  in  vain,  as  they  reported  (March  29,  1826) 
that  '  the  expectations  hitherto  entertained  on  that  subject 
had  not  been  realized^  —  a  humiliating  admission  that 
would  wellnigh  '  burst  the  kids '  of  half  the  gallant  and 
irresistible  fellows  of  the  regiment  in  the  present  day. 
Subscription  papers  for  the  requisite  funds  were  circulated 
through  the  ranks  of  the  corps,  and  promptly  filled  up  ; 
and  the  committee  adopted  designs  for  the  colors,  devised 
and  prepared  by  Sergeant  Asher  Taylor.  They  consisted 
of,  first,  a  regimental  standard,  4  the  banner  of  the  Na 
tional  Guard,'  of  red  silk,  bearing  the  arms  of  the  corps 
on  a  shield,  supported  by  wreaths  of  oak  and  laurel,  with 
the  crest,  an  eagle,  and  the  motto, '  Pro  Patria  et  Gloria'' ; 
second,  a  State  standard  of  blue  silk.  The  designs  were 
traced  on  silk  by  Sergeant  Taylor,  and  embroidered  very 
beautifully,  in  natural  colors,  under  his  supervision,  by 
Mrs.  Windsor." 

It  was  upon  the  occasion  of  the  presentation  of  the  first 
of  these,  the  regimental  standard,  that  the  regiment  made 
its  maiden  parade.  The  Hon.  Philip  Hone,  Mayor  of  the 
city,  in  presence  of  a  brilliant  assemblage,  delivered  the 
standard  with  an  eloquent  address.  The  State  standard 
was  presented  on  the  4th  of  July  following,  on  which  oc 
casion  the  semi-centennial  anniversary  of  American  Inde- 


ORIGIN   OF   THE   SEVENTH  KEGIMENT.  9 

pendence  was  celebrated  with  immense  pomp  and  circum 
stance.  The  presentation  took  place  in  Castle  Garden,  where 
"a  large  collection  of  distinguished  officers  had  assembled 
around  the  illustrious  De  Witt  Clinton,  the  Governor  of  the 
State,"  who  delivered  the  standard  to  Colonel  Wetmore, 
accompanied  by  a  glowing  eulogy,  to  which  the  Com 
mandant  replied  in  fitting  terms.  On  the  conclusion  of  the 
military  ceremonies,  the  Governor  and  Mayor,  with  their 
suites,  and  the  officers  of  the  division,  repaired  to  Washing 
ton  Parade-Ground,  where  a  public  feast  had  been  prepared 
by  the  city  corporation.  "Immense  awnings,"  says  the 
annalist,  "  were  erected,  beneath  which  two  tables,  each 
four  hundred  and  fifty  feet  long,  groaned  under  vast  quan 
tities  of  substantial  viands  "  ;  and  we  catch  the  vision  of  a 
quite  Homeric  banquet,  at  which  were  "  two  oxen,  roasted 
whole,  two  hundred  hams,  immense  piles  of  bread,  innu 
merable  barrels  of  beer,"  and  the  like  hearty  provant. 

Meanwhile,  amid  these  festivities,  the  weightier  matters 
of  drill  and  discipline  were  not  neglected.  Hitherto,  it  is 
said,  too  little  attention  had  been  devoted  to  military  in 
struction  ;  and  the  want  of  proficiency  in  the  manual  of 
arms  is  illustrated  by  the  fact  that  at  a  feu  de  joie  in  the 
Park,  the  previous  year,  a  member  of  the  Second  Company 
discharged  the  rammer  from  his  musket,  to  the  great  terror 
and  consternation  of  the  numerous  spectators.  During  the 
winter  of  1825-26,  Congress  adopted  a  new  system  of 
tactics,  known  as  "  Scott's  Tactics."  The  United  States 
Army  having  been  ordered  to  drill  in  the  new  system,  it 
was  immediately  adopted  Dy  the  more  intelligent  and  am 
bitious  militia  organizations ;  and  the  National  Guard 
promptly  commenced  its  study  and  practice.  To  complete 
our  chronology  of  the  year  1826,  we  may  add,  that  on  the 
18th  of  October  the  annual  inspection  and  review  of  the 
National  Guard  took  place  at  the  Battery,  —  present,  277  ; 
total,  present  and  absent,  437.  On  the  13th  of  November, 


10  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

there  was  a  brigade  field-day  at  Brooklyn  Heights,  and  the 
annual  parade  took  place  on  the  25th  of  November. 

It  has  already  been  mentioned  that  the  resignation  of 
Colonel  Wetmore  took  place  in  1827.  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Linus  W.  Stevens  was  then  promoted  to  the  colonelcy.  In 
this  gentleman  the  National  Guard  gained  a  Commandant 
of  superior  merit,  and  one  who  infused  into  it  a  rare  ac 
tivity  and  spirit ;  but,  unfortunately,  the  regiment,  a  year 
later,  lost  this  able  officer  by  his  resignation  in  July,  1828. 
On  the  retirement  of  Colonel  Stevens,  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Manning  was  promoted  to  the  colonelcy,  and  Captain  Levi 
Hart  was  elected  Lieutenant-Colonel.  The  regiment  never 
paraded  under  Colonel  Manning,  as  he  resigned  his  com 
mission  in  September,  1828.  Ex-Colonel  Stevens  was 
unanimously  elected  Colonel,  but  positively  declined  the 
office,  and  Lieutenant-Colonel  Hart  was  then  promoted  to 
the  colonelcy.  In  January,  1830,  Colonel  Hart  resigned  his 
commission,  and  ex-Colonel  Stevens,  at  the  unanimous  and 
urgent  request  of  the  line  officers  of  the  regiment,  accepted 
the  colonelcy.  Upon  his  recommendation,  Morgan  L. 
Smith  was  elected  Lieutenant-Colonel,  and  John  M.  Catlin, 
Major.  The  return  of  Colonel  Stevens  to  the  command  of 
the  regiment  revived  its  fortunes  at  once. 

In  perusing  the  annals  of  the  regiment  during  the  year 
1830,  we  note  that  the  usual  number  of  drills  and  parades 
took  place  and  were  well  attended.  One  of  the  parades 
(November  26th)  was  in  honor  of  the  French  Revolution 
of  that  year,  which  resulted  in  the  elevation  of  Louis 
Philippe  to  the  throne.  The  annual  inspection  and  re 
view  took  place  on  the  26th  of  October  at  the  Battery. 
Total  present,  360;  present  and  absent,  472.  The  follow 
ing  year,  1831,  the  regiment  was  active  and  prosperous, 
and  performed  an  unusual  amount  of  military  duty. 

It  was  during  this  latter  year  that  the  regiment  made 
its  first  encampment.  This  took  place  at  Poughkeepsie, 


ORIGIN   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT.  11 

and  the  camp  was  named  Camp  Clinton.  The  members,  to 
the  number  of  two  hundred  and  fifty-six,  were  conveyed  by 
boat,  under  the  management  of  Quartermaster  Sniffen,  and 
remained  at  Poughkeepsie  from  the  2d  to  the  5th  of  July, 
amid  varied  duties  and  festivities.  The  experiment  was 
so  complete  a  success  that  it  was  repeated  the  following 
year  (Camp  Putnam),  and  often  in  the  subsequent  history 
of  the  regiment. 

In  1834  the  regiment  was  called  upon  for  the  first  time 
to  quell  a  riot  in  the  city,  —  a  duty  which  on  many  mem 
orable  after-occasions  fell  to  its  lot.  The  trouble  in  this 
case  grew  out  of  the  bitter  hostilities  existing  between  the 
Whigs  and  Democrats  at  the  election  in  the  spring  of  1834. 
The  civil  authorities  attempted  to  stop  the  disturbance,  but 
were  powerless.  Finally  the  Whigs  took  possession  of 
the  Arsenal,  and  the  Mayor,  having  learned  this  fact,  or 
dered  out  the  National  Guard.  The  regiment  assembled 
promptly,  and  within  two  hours  after  the  order  was  issued 
three  hundred  of  its  members  were  guarding  the  Arsenal 
and  patrolling  the  adjoining  streets.  The  regiment  con 
tinued  on  duty  until  the  next  morning,  when,  the  canvass 
having  been  completed  and  the  excitement  having  subsided, 
it  was  dismissed  with  the  thanks  of  the  Mayor.  In  July 
of  this  same  year  a  similar  duty  devolved  upon  the  Na 
tional  Guard,  it  being  called  upon  to  quell  the  "  Abolition 
riots,"  in  which  a  number  of  buildings,  including  three 
churches,  were  sacked  by  the  mob.  The  regiment  on  this 
trying  occasion  behaved  with  an  admirable  mingling  of 
firmness  and  forbearance,  that  won  for  it  the  warmest 
praise  from  all  good  citizens.  The  riots  began  on  the  9th, 
and  culminated  on  the  llth.  On  the  evening  of  the  latter 
day,  the  Twenty-Seventh  Regiment  was  called  upon  by  the 
Mayor  to  march  to  Spring  Street,  where  the  churches  of 
Drs.  Ludlow  and  Cox  had  been  sacked  by  the  mob,  who 
were  intrenched  in  great  force  behind  barricades,  and  had 


12  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

already  dispersed  a  body  of  cavalry.  It  lacked  but  an  hour 
of  midnight  when  the  Guard,  under  Colonel  Stevens,  took 
up  its  march  from  the  City  Hall,  where  it  had  been  stationed 
by  the  authorities.  A  great  mob  followed  it ;  and  at  the 
corner  of  Spring  and  Sullivan  Streets  it  received  a  gall 
ing  fire  of  stones  and  other  missiles,  hurled  from  win 
dows  and  housetops,  which  wounded  many  of  the  troops. 
Clearing  a  path  through  the  barricades,  the  regiment  moved 
forward  in  column  by  division,  at  half  distance,  and  drove 
the  rioters  to  the  intersection  of  Spring  and  Varick  Streets, 
where,  halting,  it  formed  square,  dividing  the  mob  sud 
denly  in  all  directions,  and  so  ending  the  affair.  "  The  Na 
tional  Guard  was  charged,"  said  Mayor  Lawrence,  in  his 
message  to  the  Common  Council,  "  with  the  duty  of  remov 
ing  the  rioters  from  a  section  of  the  city  where  the  most 
violent  outrages  had  been  committed,  and,  in  the  perform 
ance  of  this  service,  while  assailed  by  the  missiles  of  the 
mob,  evinced  a  forbearance  commendable  in  the  citizen, 
united  with"  a  determination  which  belongs  to  the  charac 
ter  of  the  soldier." 

In  December,  1834,  Colonel  Stevens  resigned  his  com 
mission.  Lieutenant-Colonel  Smith  was  elected  Colonel ; 
Major  Catlin,  Lieutenant-Colonel  ;  and  Captain  Roome, 
Major.  The  retirement  of  that  able  and  accomplished  offi 
cer  was  a  matter  of  general  regret.  Many  years  later  he 
was  familiarly  known  as  "  the  Father  of  the  National 
Guard,"  —  a  title  which  he  had  fairly  earned  by  constant 
devotion  to  its  best  interests.  We  shall  in  the  sequel  see 
that  affection  for  the  corps  never  ceased  to  animate  the 
breast  of  Colonel  Stevens,  and  that  even  during  the  war, 
as  a  member  of  the  Veterans,  he  was  active  in  its  welfare. 
This  estimable  gentleman  died  in  1863. 

The  memories  of  the  veteran  members  will  go  back  to 
these  years  in  many  pleasing  recollections.  There  were 
target  excursions  to  Ponson's,  and  competitive  drills,  and  a 


ORIGIN   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT.  13 

general  spirit  of  joyous  activity.  In  the  year  1835  the 
Order  of  Merit  was  established,  and  competitive  drills  for 
its  honors  were  instituted.  In  the  first  drill  which  took 
place  the  contest  was  chiefly  between  the  Seventh  Company, 
Captain  Cairns,  and  the  Eighth  Company,  under  Lieutenant 
Shumway.  The  honors  were  carried  off  by  the  former. 
In  the  following  year  the  contest  was  renewed,  and  again  the 
leading  rivals  were  the  Seventh  and  Eighth  Companies. 
But  this  time  the  judges  awarded  the  palm  to  Shumway's 
company,  —  a  result  which  so  chagrined  Captain  Cairns 
that  he  withdrew  from  the  regiment,  taking  with  him  a 
large  part  of  his  company.  This  led  to  such  bitterness  of 
feeling,  that,  finally,  the  Order  of  Merit  was  abolished  alto 
gether. 

In  the  summer  of  1837,  Colonel  Smith  and  Major 
Roome  resigned  their  commissions.  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Catlin  was  elected  Colonel ;  Captain  Jones,  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  ;  and  Captain  Burt,  Major.  In  March,  1838,  a  troop 
of  horse  was  organized  and  attached  to  the  regiment. 

It  is  worthy  of  note  that  at  this  period  a  movement  was 
set  on  foot  by  the  National  Guard  to  gbtain  drill-rooms 
from  the  city  corporation.  This  movement  was  finally  suc 
cessful  in  1839,  when  the  rooms  over  Centre  Market  were 
granted  to  the  militia  of  New  York  for  military  purposes. 

In  March,  1839,  Major  Burt  resigned  his  commission, 
and  E.  T.  Backhouse  was  elected  his  successor.  In  the 
latter  part  of  the  year,  Colonel  Catlin  resigned,  and  Lieuten 
ant-Colonel  Jones  was  elected  Colonel ;  Major  Backhouse, 
Lieutenant-Colonel ;  and  Captain  W.  R.  Vermilye,  Major. 
In  May,  1843,  Lieutenant-Colonel  Backhouse  resigned,  and 
Major  Vermilye  was  elected  Lieutenant-Colonel,  and  Captain 
George  G.  Waters,  Major.  In  April,  1844,  Lieutenant-Colo 
nel  Vermilye  was  elected  Colonel ;  Major  Waters,  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  ;  and  Captain  Andrew  A.  Bremner  was  promoted  to 
the  majority.  In  May,  1845,  Lieutenant-Colonel  Waters 


14  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

resigned,  and,  in  June,  Major  Bremner  was  promoted  to  the 
lieutenant-colonelcy ;  in  September,  Captain  Duryee,  of  the 
Second  Company,  was  elected  Major.  Colonel  Vermilye 
resigned  in  August ;  and,  in  November,  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Bremner  was  elected  Colonel ;  Major  Duryee,  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  ;  and  Adjutant  Divver,  Major." 

And  now  we  come  to  another  great  historic  epoch  in 
the  annals  of  the  regiment.  On  the  27th  of  July,  1847, 
Governor  Young  ordered  the  "  Twenty-Seventh  Regiment 
of  Artillery  (National  Guard),  under  the  command  of 
Colonel  Bremner,  to  be  hereafter  called  and  known  as  the 
Seventh  Regiment  New  York  State  Militia." 

In  May,  1847,  Major  Divver  resigned  his  commission,  to 
serve  as  an  officer  in  the  United.  States  Army  in  Mexico. 
Captain  A.  B.  Brinckerhoff  took  his  place.  In  October, 
1848,  Colonel  Bremner,  an  energetic,  accomplished,  and 
popular  officer,  resigned  his  commission.  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  Duryee  was,  in  January,  1849,  elected  Colonel ; 
Major  Brinckerhoff 5  Lieutenant-Colonel ;  and  Captain  Mor 
ton,  Major.  Soon  after,  an  engineer  corps  was  organized, 
which  subsequently  formed  the  nucleus  of  a  howitzer  com 
pany,  and,  still  later,  of  the  Tenth  (K)  Company. 

With  this  bald  chronology  let  us  take  leave  of  the  five- 
and-twenty  years  preceding  1849 ;  for,  though  the  annals 
of  the  regiment  contain  many  interesting  records  of  this 
period,  we  must  forbear  even  the  briefest  mention  of  them. 
Dismissing  these,  therefore,  we  are  brought  at  length  to 
that  important  chapter  in  the  history  of  the  National  Guard, 
—  the  Astor  Place  riots. 

It  does  not  come  within  the  scope  of  the  present  work 
to  enter  with  any  fulness  of  detail  into  the  story  of  this 
notable  affair  ;  and,  indeed,  the  general  facts  are  too  famil 
iar  to  render  this  necessary.  It  is  well  known  that  the 
trouble  originated  chiefly  with  some  friends  of  Mr.  Forrest, 
the  American  tragedian,  whose  unfavorable  reception  in 


ORIGIN   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT.  15 

England  was  partly  attributed  by  them  to  the  intrigue  of 
Mr.  Macready.  In  the  winter  of  1848-49,  Mr.  Macready 
made  his  farewell  visit  to  the  United  States,  and  the 
friends  of  Mr.  Forrest  determined  to  seize  on  that  occa 
sion  to  avenge  him.  Macready 's  first  engagement  was 
tranquil  enough  ;  but  011  the  evening  of  the  7th  of  May, 
his  first  appearance  in  his  second  engagement  at  the  Astor 
Place  Opera  House,  he  was  driven  from  the  stage  by  a  mob. 
On  the  10th  another  attempt  was  made  to  secure  him  a 
hearing,  and  it  was  this  that  precipitated  the  famous  riot. 
On  the  evening  in  question,  fully  twenty  thousand  men  and 
boys,  the  dregs  of  the  city,  gathered,  by  previous  concert, 
around  the  theatre,  armed  with  stones,  sticks,  and  pistols. 
It  so  chanced  that  the  pavement  in  Broadway  had  been 
raised  for  the  purpose  of  repairing  the  sewers,  and  the 
round  paving-stones  furnished  to  the  mob  an  arsenal  of 
terrible  ammunition.  Three  hundred  police  were  driven 
back,  after  a  gallant  struggle  to  disperse  them  ;  and  at 
length  Colonel  Duryce,  who  had,  in  pursuance  of  General 
Sandford's  orders,  held  the  Seventh  Regiment  ready  at 
Centre  Market,  was  ordered  up.  At  9  P.  M.  the  regiment 
arrived  at  Astor  Place,  preceded  by  the  National  Guard 
Troop  and  a  company  of  cavalry.  The  mounted  men,  ten 
abreast,  charged  through  the  place  from  Broadway ;  but 
their  horses,  galled  by  the  fire  of  the  mob,  became  unman 
ageable,  and  they  reached  Third  Avenue,  having  accom 
plished  nothing.  The  Seventh  Eegiment  then  followed,  in 
column  of  platoons,  headed  by  Colonel  Duryee,  clearing  a 
way  to  Third  Avenue  ;  thence,  in  column  of  companies, 
clearing  Eighth  Street,  and,  finally,  again  moving  through 
Broadway  into  Astor  Place,  and  forming  line  in  front  of  the 
theatre.  The  volleys  of  stones  from  the  mob  there  became 
very  severe  ;  but  the  regiment  preserved  its  magnificent 
discipline  under  the  trying  ordeal. 

General  Sandford,  the  division  commander,  gave  orders 


16  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

to  wheel  half  the  regiment  to  the  right  and  the  other  half 
to  the  left,  in  order  to  divide  and  drive  the  mob  ;  but  the 
attempt  was  unsuccessful,  and  many  officers  and  men,  in 
cluding  Generals  Sandford  and  Hall,  Colonel  Duryee,  and 
Captains  Shurnway  and  Pond,  were  wounded.  An  effort 
to  use  the  bayonet  was  also  unsuccessful,  the  mob  crowding 
so  as  not  to  allow  free  formation  or  use  of  the  pieces.  At 
length  the  authority  to  fire,  which  General  Hall  had  long 
been  unsuccessfully  begging  of  the  Mayor,  was  given  by 
Sheriff  Westervelt,  after  a  final  warning  to  the  mob  by  Re 
corder  Tallmadge.  The  first  volley  was  purposely  aimed 
high ;  the  second  was  point-blank,  and  was  delivered  with 
terrible  effect;  and,  pressing  hard  on  the  flying  mob,  the 
troops  soon  cleared  Astor  Place  of  rioters.  In  La  Fayette 
Place  and  Eighth  Street  the  leaders  rallied  the  rabble  once 
more,  and  returned  to  the  attack ;  but  a  third  volley  scat 
tered  them  completely,  and  ended  the  Astor  Place  riot. 

The  next  day  the  city  was  very  disorderly,  but  a  large 
military  and  police  force  kept  down  all  dangerous  disturb 
ance.  The  Seventh  was  on  duty  the  three  days  following, 
but  the  lesson  it  had  already  given  the  mob  proved  effect 
ual.  Twenty  of  the  rioters  were  thought  to  be  killed  or 
mortally  wounded,  and  fifty  or  sixty  were  more  or  less 
severely  wounded ;  of  the  regiment,  over  one  hundred  and 
fifty  officers  and  men  were  seriously  injured,  of  whom 
seventy  were  carried  to  their  homes.  All,  however,  recov 
ered,  and  to  this  day  many  show  the  honorable  wounds  of 
Astor  Place. 

From  that  eventM  night  dates,  perhaps,  the  civic  popu 
larity  and  national  prestige  of  the  Seventh  Regiment.  Its 
courage,  promptness,  discipline,  and  steadiness  were  long 
the  theme  of  conversation,  and  no  honors  of  city  or  citi- 
zens  were  thought  too  high  to  be  paid  to  these  trustworthy 
guardians  of  law  and  order.  The  Ars*enal  riots  in  1834, 
the  Abolition  riots  in  the  same  year,  the  stevedore  riots  of 


ORIGIN   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT.  17 

1836  and  1852.  the  flour  riots  of  1837,  the  Croton  Works 
riots  in  1840,  the  Astor  Place  riots  in  1849,  the  Mayor 
Wood,  Mackerel ville,  and  Sixth  Ward  riots  of  1857,  the 
quarantine  riot  in  1859,  and  the  draft  riots  of  1863,  bear 
witness  that  this  public  confidence  has  not  been  mis 
placed. 

In  1850  Colonel  Duryee,  always  untiring  in  his  efforts  to 
improve  the  regiment,  established  evening  battalion  drills, 
and  the  next  year  "  drills  by  wing."  In  February,  1851, 
Marshall  Lefferts,  who  had  the  year  before  entered  the  regi 
ment  as  a  private,  but  who  had  for  three  years  previous 
been  a  member  of  General  Hall's  brigade  staff,  was  elected 
Major.  In  June,  1852,  Major  Lefferts  was  chosen  Lieu 
tenant-Colonel  of  the  regiment.  In  December,  1854,  the 
board  of  officers  began  the  movement  which  resulted  in 
giving  the  regiment  the  Tompkins  Market  Armory.  On 
May  1,  1856,  Edgar  M.  Crawford  was  elected  Major. 

In  June,  1857,  the  regiment  acceded  to  a  request  to  visit 
Boston  and  participate  in  the  Bunker  Hill  Monument  cele 
bration  of  that  year.  Nothing  can  well  describe  the  aston 
ishment  and  admiration  which  its  appearance  on  that  occa 
sion  created. 

In  July,  1858,  the  regiment  was  selected  to  escort  the 
remains  of  President  Monroe  from  New  York  to  Virginia. 
Colonel  August,  who  officially  welcomed  the  regiment  to 
Virginia,  said :  "  The  fame  of  your  gallant  corps  is  coex 
tensive  with  the  broad  limits  of  this  Union,  and  the  name 
of  National  Guard  is  the  synonyme  of  model  citizen  sol 
dier."  Colonel  Carey  pronounced  it  "  the  first  corps  of 
the  nation,  —  always  known  to  the  country,  and  to-day  en 
deared  to  Virginia."  Many  pages  of  such  eulogy  could  be 
cited,  but  Mr.  Udolpho  Wolfe's  volume  on  the  Richmond 
excursion  leaves  nothing  to  be  added. 

The  9th  of  May,  1859,  is  also  an  historic  day  in  the 
annals  of  the  regiment.  It  was  then  that  the  famous  asso- 


18  HISTORY   OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

elation  of  the  exempt  members  of  the  Seventh  Regiment 
was  organized,  called  the  "  Veterans  of  the  National 
Guard,"  subsequently  incorporated  by  the  Legislature  of 
New  York.  Its  objects  are,  "  1st,  To  institute  a  bond  of  fel 
lowship  and  union  between  former  and  present  companions 
in  arms ;  2d,  To  institute  and  perpetuate  an  official  record 
and  registry  of  the  origin,  acts,  and  members  of  the  Seventh 
Regiment ;  and  3d,  To  create  a  fund  for  useful  and  benevo 
lent  purposes." 

In  July,  1859,  Colonel  Duryee,  one  of  the  ablest,  most 
earnest,  and  most  valuable  commanders  that  had  ever  graced 
the  head  of  the  regiment,  and  in  all  respects  a  consummate 
soldier,  after  twenty-one  years'  service  resigned  his  com 
mission.  Under  his  care  the  regiment  had  reached  an 
unprecedented  degree  of  perfection  and  celebrity,  and  his 
name  will  always  be  spoken  of  with  gratitude  and  respect 
by  the  National  Guard.  In  August,  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Lefferts  was  elected  Colonel ;  Major  Edgar  M.  Crawford, 
Lieutenant-Colonel ;  and  Adjutant  William  A.  Fond,  Major. 

On  the  29th  of  March,  1860,  a  new  company  was  organ 
ized  on  the  basis  of  the  Engineer  Corps.  E.  L.  Viele 
was  designated  as  Captain,  G.  L.  Farrar  as  First  Lieu 
tenant,  and  E.  M.  Le  Moyne  as  Second  Lieutenant.  The 
order  from  head-quarters  prescribed  that  "  this  company 
will  serve  with  prairie  howitzers  when  so  ordered,"  and 
also  that  "  it  will  be  designated  by  the  letter  K."  In  De 
cember  following,  Major  Pond  was  elected  Lieutenant- 
Colonel,  and  Captain  Shaler  was  elected  Major. 

To  other  hands  must  be  left  the  task  of  following  in  de 
tail  the  regimental  annals  of  the  six-and-thirty  years  that 
preceded  the  Rebellion,  —  its  regular  civic  parades,  inspec 
tions,  drills,  and  reviews,  division,  brigade,  and  regimental ; 
its  famous  camps,  Clinton,  Putnam,  Hamilton,  Schuyler, 
Trumbull,  Scott ;  its  grand  excursions  to  Boston,  Bunker 
Hill,  Mount  Vernon,  Newport,  Richmond,  West  Point, 


ORIGIN   OF  THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT.  19 

Washington  ;  its  return  courtesies  to  military  corps  visit 
ing  the  city,  and  to  distinguished  visitors  in  whose  honor 
the  city  authorities  have  always  exhibited  the  Seventh  with 
so  much  pride  ;  its  receptions  of  such  famous  civic  guests 
as  Jackson,  Tyler,  Polk,  Scott,  and  as  La  Fayette,  Kossuth, 
and,  later,  the  Japanese  ambassadors,  the  Russian  officers, 
and  the  Prince  of  Wales ;  its  celebrations  of  public  events, 
like  the  completion  of  the  Erie  Canal,  of  the  Croton.  Water 
Works,  of  the  Crystal  Palace,  and  of  the  Atlantic  Cable  ; 
its  part  in  public  obsequies,  like  those  of  Presidents  Adams, 
Jefferson,  Monroe,  J.  Q.  Adams,  Jackson,  Harrison,  Taylor, 
and  those  of  La  Fayette,  Clay,  Webster,  Worth  ;  or  its  regi 
mental  benefactions,  charities,  and  subscriptions  to  private 
or  public  enterprises,  to  be  reckoned  by  hundreds  of  thou 
sands  of  dollars. 

When  the  Clark  Mills  equestrian  statue  of  Washington 
was  unveiled  at  the  National  Capitol  in  1860,  the  presence 
of  the  Seventh  was  asked  for  by  Congress  and  accorded. 
The  President  of  the  United  States,  Mr.  Buchanan,  thanked 
the  regiment  in  a  very  earnest  and  elaborate  speech,  of 
which  one  memorable  paragraph  was :  "  The  military  pre 
cision  in  your  march,  the  admirable  manner  in  which  you 
go  through  your  exercise,  and  the  stout,  hardy,  noble,  and 
defiant  look  which  you  exhibit,  show  that  in  the  day  and 
hour  of  battle  you  would  not  be  mere  parade  soldiers,  but 
that  you  would  be  in  its  very  front."  At  the  Prince  of 
Wales  celebration,  in  October,  1860,  the  Prince  said  to 
General  Sandford,  regarding  the  Seventh  :  "  It  is  the  finest 
regiment  I  have  ever  seen  in  any  country."  Lord  Lyons 
and  General  Bruce  used  similar  expressions  then  and  after 
wards.  An  able  article  in  the  "  London  United  Service 
Magazine,"  the  same  month,  devoted  entirely  to  a  discus 
sion  of  the  "  world-renowned  Seventh  Regiment  of  New 
York,"  says :  "  The  Seventh  Regiment  has  unceasingly  de 
voted  itself  to  the  attainment  of  military  excellence,  and  I 


20  HISTOKY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

will  venture  to  say  that  the  civilized  world  does  not  possess 
a  finer  corps,  in  every  sense  of  the  term.  Judging  from  the 
opportunities  of  comparison  which  a  life  spent  among  Euro 
pean  and  Asiatic  armies  has  given  me,  I  should  say  that  no 
troops  in  the  world  can  march,  fire,  and  go  through  the  ordi 
nary  operations  of  a  field-day  with  more  precision  than  the 
National  Guard."  The  Toronto  "  Globe  "  declared,  at  the 
same  time :  "  In  return  for  the  hospitality  extended  to  the 
Prince  of  Wales,  the  Seventh  Regiment — the  crack  corps 
of  the  Union  —  should  visit  Great  Britain.  There  is  no 
infantry  regiment  in  the  world  whose  drill  is  more  perfect, 
or  which  presents  a  more  splendid  appearance." 

When  Camp  Scott  was  founded,  in  1860,  the  Colonel  of 
the  regiment  received  the  following  letter  from  Lieutenant- 
General  Scott :  — 

WEST  POINT,  July  T,  1860. 

DEAR  SIR,  —  Being  temporarily  lame,  I  pray  you  to  pardon  me  for 
declining  the  invitation  to  visit  your  regiment  on  Staten  Island,  which 
has  done  me  the  honor  to  call  its  camp  of  instruction  by  my  name,  and 
I  have  long  honored  the  noble  corps.  It  has  well  earned  the  title  of  the 
National  Guard  at  Richmond,  at  Boston,  and  at  Washington,  as  on 
frequent  occasions  at  home,  where  1  do  not  think  it  too  much  to  say 
that  law  and  order,  the  life  and  property  of  every  citizen,  depend,  in 
the  last  resort,  on  the  high  moral  tone,  the  steady  valor  and  discipline, 
of  the  Seventh  Regiment  of  New  York  Volunteers. 

With  high  respect  I  remain,  my  dear  Colonel, 
Yours  truly, 

WINFIELD  SCOTT. 
To  COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  National  Guard. 

The  same  year,  Stephen  A.  Douglas,  then  candidate  for 
the  Presidency,  pithily  described  the  Seventh,  in  a  public 
letter,  as  "  that  unrivalled  regiment  of  citizen  soldiers." 

The  Seventh  Regiment  was  often  invited  to  other  cities 
for  the  purpose  of  stirring  up  local  ambition  in  volunteer 
troops.  The  regimental  letter-books  show  that  in  all  parts 
of  the  country  regiments  took  it  as  a  model.  Some  called 


ORIGIN  OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT.  21 

themselves  its  "  namesakes,"  using  the  famous  title  "  Na 
tional  Guard  "  ;  very  many  copied  its  "  bill  of  dress,"  the 
familiar  "  gray  with  black  trimmings  " ;  scores  of  regiments, 
new  and  old,  adopted  the  various  company  by-laws  and 
by-laws  of  council ;  questions  of  drill,  discipline,  and  or 
ganization  were  sent  from  all  parts  of  the  country  to  its 
commanding  officer  as  umpire ;  even  the  insignia  and  coat 
of  arms  were  in  some  cases  copied ;  and  these  tributes 
came  not  only  from  the  seaboard  States,  but  even  from 
as  far  west  as  Illinois  and  Iowa.  Ellsworth,  in  spe'aking 
at  a  public  dinner  of  his  alert  and  excellent  company  of 
Zouaves,  said :  "  When  my  comrades  here  did  me  the  honor 
to  call  upon  me  to  take  command  of  them,  I  set  before 
myself  and  them  the  Seventh  Regiment  as  our  model. 
This  is  the  secret  of  our  success." 

On  the  5th  of  September,  1860,  Robert  Quid,  United 
States  Attorney  for  the  District  of  Columbia  (afterwards  a 
well-known  Confederate  officer),  presented  to  the  regiment 
from  the  corporation  of  the  city  of  Washington  a  splendid 
stand  of  colors,  the  most  elegant  and  costly  ever  given  to 
the  Seventh  Regiment.  Mr.  Quid's  eloquent  address  was 
full  of  good  Union  sentiments,  and  the  flag  he  handed 
to  Colonel  Lefferts  was  carried  by  the  regiment,  a  few 
months  later,  to  the  rescue  of  the  city  that  gave  it.  The 
same  day  was  made  illustrious  by  another  grand  presenta 
tion,  made  by  the  corporation  of  another  famous  city,  —  the 
formal  transfer  to  the  regiment  of  the  Tompkins  Market 
Armory,  the  most  splendid  building  for  this  purpose  in  the 
world.  u  It  is  doubtful,"  said  Mayor  Wood,  in  his  address 
on  that  occasion,  "  whether  this  elegant  structure,  so  cred 
itable  to  the  city,  would  ever  have  been  erected,  but  for  the 
regiment's  hold  upon  public  esteem.  Your  claims  to  its 
occupancy  are  based  upon  grounds  of  substantial  service." 
It  was  indeed  a  magnificent  armory,  worthy  of  the  name 
and  fame  of  the  Seventh  Regiment. 


22  HISTORY   OF  THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

But  now  our  rapid  historic  survey  has  brought  us  down 
to  the  most  stirring  year  of  the  regimental  history,  and  to 
the  beginning  of  the  story  to  whose  record  this  volume  is 
mainly  devoted.  On  the  1st  day  of  January,  1861,  the 
active  strength  of  the  regiment  was  895  men,  making  a 
gain  over  the  previous  year  of  97  men.  The  field  and  staff 
contained  22  ;  the  first  company,  85  ;  the  second,  127  ;  the 
third,  91 ;  the  fourth,  100  ;  the  fifth,  85  ;  the  sixth,  100 ; 
the  seventh,  96  ;  the  eighth,  100  ;  the  Engineer  and  Artil 
lery,  50 ;  the  troop,  39.  This  body  meant  something 
more,  however,  as  we  have  seen,  than  mere  numbers ;  it 
meant  soldierly  port,  discipline,  tried  steadiness,  and  na 
tional  prestige.  The  question  at  this  time  asked  on  all 
hands  was,  Would  the  Seventh  Regiment,  in  the  stormy 
days  near  at  hand,  show  itself  worthy  of  its  great  name 
and  fame  ? 


THE   SUMMONS   TO   THE   FIELD. 


23 


CHAPTER    II. 

THE    SUMMONS   TO    THE    FIELD. 

N  Saturday,  the  13th  of 
April,  1861,  the  cannon  of 
Beauregard  echoed  from 
Charleston  Harbor  across 
the  continent.  On  Mon 
day  thereafter  a  Proclama 
tion  of  the  President  sum 
moned  the  militia  of  the 
Republic,  to  the  number  of 
75,000,  to  assemble  and 
execute  its  insulted  laws. 

This  call  found  the  Sev 
enth  Regiment  of  New 
York  ready.  Three  months 
before,  on  the  14th  of  Jan 
uary,  its  board  of  officers 
had  privately  passed  the 
following  resolution,  pre 
sented  by  Major  Shaler :  — 

"  Resolved,  That,  should  the  exigency  arise,  we  feel  confident  in  hav 
ing  the  commandant  express  to  the  Governor  of  the  State  the  desire  of 
this  regiment  to  perform  such  duty  as  he  may  prescribe."  * 

*  This  notably  early  action  on  the  part  of  the  Seventh  was  forthwith  communi 
cated  to  Lieutenant-General  Scott,  then  at  Washington;  and  his  estimate  of  the 
regiment  is  expressed  in  the  following  extract  from  his  reply  to  General  Sandford, 
dated  January  19,  1861:  '•  Perhaps  no  regiment  or  company  can  be  brought  here 
from  a  distance  without  producing  hurtful  jealousies  in  this  vicinity.  If  there  be 
an  exception,  it  is  the  Seventh  Infantry  of  the  city  of  New  York,  which  has  be 
come  somewhat  national,  and  is  held  deservedly  in  the  highest  respect." 


24  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

The  "exigency"  had  come,  —  that  exigency  darkly  out 
lined  in  the  terse,  significant  vote,  —  an  exigency  even  then 
too  menacing  to  ignore  or  neglect.  The  national  capital 
was  in  danger,  and  the  cry  was  for  help. 

Armed  with  this  authority,  Colonel  Lefferts  now  put  his 
regiment  at  the  disposal  of  Governor  Morgan,  and,  while 
waiting  a  reply,  called  a  meeting  of  his  officers  next  day, 
whereat,  there  being  forty  present,  this  resolve  was  unani 
mously  passed :  — 

"  That  the  Colonel  be  requested  to  notify  the  Major- General  that  this 
regiment  responds  to  the  call  of  the  country  as  made  by  the  President 
through  the  Governor  of  the  State,  and  that  the  regiment  is  ready  to 
march  forthwith." 

Through  the  city  and  the  State,  through  other  cities  and 
States,  the  tidings  went  that  the  Seventh  would  march  in 
the  van.  As  its  name  had  long  been  familiar  to  the  people, 
its  prompt  devotion  was  hailed  as  a  token  that  whatever 
was  best  and  dearest  in  the  North  would  be  laid  on  the 
altar  of  patriotism.  As  the  Guards,  Queen  Victoria's  house 
hold  troops,  were  among  the  first  to  spring  forward  for  the 
Crimean  War,  so  the  flower  of  the  citizen  soldiery  of  the 
Union  was  pledged  in  the  march  of  the  Seventh  to  the 
relief  and  defence  of  the  national  capital. 

The  day  following,  April  17th,  the  merchants  of  New 
York  met  in  their  Chamber  of  Commerce,  where  thirty-one 
gentlemen  gave  $  100  each  "  for  the  equipment  of  the  Sev 
enth  Regiment  for  active  service."  The  list  of  subscribers 
was  then  doubled,  the  total  sum  put  down  being  $6,140. 
The  following  are  the  names  of  the  subscribers  on  this 
occasion  :  — 

Moses  H.  Grinnell,  $100.00  S.  Wetmore,  $100.00 

George  B.  De  Forrest,  100.00  R.  M.  Blatchford,  100  00 

L.  G.  Cannon,  100.00  Thomas  Addis  Emmet,  100.00 

C.  R.  Robert,  100.00  A.  C.  Gray,  100.00 

Royal  Phelps,  100.00  W.  B.  Duncan,  100.00 


THE   SUMMONS   TO   THE   FIELD. 


25 


Phelps,  Dodge,  &  Co.,  $100.00 

Charles  H.  Kussell,  100.00 

Edwin  Bartlett,  100.00 

Charles  Christmas,  100.00 

Edward  Minturn,  100.00 

S.  B.  Chittenden,  100.00 

Moses  Taylor,  100.00 

Theodore  Dehon,  100.00 

Ogden  Haggerty,  100.00 

William  M.  Evarts,  100.00 

G.  S.  Bobbins,  100.00 

George  Griswold,  100.00 

John  A.  Stevens,  100.00 

James  Gallatin,  100.00 

E.  Walker  &  Son,  100.00 

H.  R.  Dunham,  100.00 

Hamilton  Fish,  100.00 

Robert  B.  Minturn,  100.00 

D.  F.  Manice,  100.00 

George  W.  Blunt,  50.00 

James  H.  Titus,           .  100.00 

William  Curtis  Noyes,  100.00 

Shepherd  Knapp,  50.00 

Charles  H.  Marshall,  100.00 

A.  V.  Stout,  100.00 

W.  Whitewright,  Jr.,  100.00 

John  L.  Aspinwall,  100.00 

J.  F.  D.  Lanier,  100.00 

Henry  Chauncey,  Jr.,  50.00 


Stewart  Brown,  $  100.00 

Andrew  Foster,  100.00 

Joseph  W.  Alsop,  100.00 

Joseph  Gaillard,  Jr.,  100.00 

Henry  Chauncey,  100.00 

James  S.  Wadsworth,  100.00 

August  Belmont,  100-00 

John  Bridge,  100.00 

Clark  &  Mosely,  100.00 

Benj.  F.  Breeden,  100.00 

Benj.  Nathan,  100.00 

P.  S.  Forbes,  100.00 

W.  W.  De  Forest,  100.00 

Charles  Davis,  100.00 

Isaac  Bell,  100.00 

Frederick  Bronson,  100.00 

Howell  L.  Williams,  100.00 

B.  H.  Hutton,  100.00 
Almon  W.  Griswold,  100.00 
New  York  Stock  Ex.  1,000.00 
Rufus  Prime,  20.00 
Washington  Coster,  20.00 
Aymar  &  Co.,  100.00 
Bleecker  Outhout,  100.00 
Levi  E.  Morton,  100.00 

C.  B.  Loomis,  25.00 
R.  Alsop,  100.00 
G.  C.  Ward,  50.00 
Benj.  L.  Swan,  100.00 


Major-General  Sandford,  notified  by  Colonel  Lefferts  of 
the  action  of  the  officers,  both  telegraphed  and  wrote  at 
once  to  General  Scott  that  "  the  Seventh  Regiment  was 
ready  and  waiting  orders  to  proceed  to  Washington." 
During  the  17th,  Colonel  Lefferts  addressed  the  same  offi 
cer,  informing  him  that  the  Seventh  had  a  full  set  of 
camp  equipage,  and  could  go  into  camp  without  delay  out 
side  of  Washington.  The  following  is  the  text  of  the 
despatch :  — 


26  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

NEW  YORK,  17th  April,  1851. 
LIEUTENANT-GENERAL  WINFIELD  SCOTT,  U.  S.  A. 

SIR,  —  Major-General  Sandford  has  already  telegraphed  and  written, 
informing  you  that  the  Seventh  Regiment  New  York  State  Militia  are 
ready,  and  waiting  orders,  to  proceed  to  Washington  as  per  order  of  the 
Governor.  I  fear  that  he  may  have  failed  to  inform  you  that  we  have 
a  full  set  of  camp  equipage,  and  can  and  should  prefer  to  go  into  camp 
within  the  vicinity  of  the  city  of  Washington ;  but  of  course  have  no 
preference  over  your  orders. 

I  have  the  honor  to  remain, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS, 

Colonel  Commanding. 

Anticipating  the  orders  for  march,  the  men  were  prepar 
ing  their  knapsacks  and  settling  their  affairs,  while,  through 
the  day,  many  exempt  members,  repairing  to  Colonel  Lef- 
ferts's  office,  begged  the  privilege  of  enrolment.  After 
nightfall,  also,  Colonel  Lefferts's  residence  was  besieged 
by  persons  desirous  of  sharing  the  fortunes  of  the  corps. 
Among  those  at  this  time  accepted  as  a  recruit  was  Captain 
Schuyler  Hamilton,  formerly  of  the  staff  of  General  Scott. 
Of  course  the  commandant  had  in  most  cases  to  say  nay  to 
these  solicitations  ;  and  as  he  was  jealously  watchful  lest  the 
quality  of  the  regiment  should  be  impaired,  he  could  only 
take  such  as  had  been  well  drilled. 

The  left-wing  drill  (which  had  been  ordered  previous 
to  the  events  just  related)  was  witnessed  at  night  by  an 
overflowing  audience  of  ladies  and  gentlemen  ;  and  already 
the  scenes  at  the  armory,  thronged  with  devoted  friends  of 
the  regiment,  showed  how  deep  and  tender  emotion  the  pros 
pect  of  its  departure  stirred.  During  the  drill,  General 
Sandford,  having  received  the  hoped-for  order  from  General 
Scott,  communicated  the  news  to  Colonel  Lefferts,  who  sub 
sequently  informed  the  officers.  It  was  wellnigh  midnight 
when  these  orders  reached  the  regiment;  but  early  next 
morning  Colonel  Lefferts  had  arranged  for  transportation. 
General  Scott  had  instructed  the  regiment  to  proceed  by 


THE   SUMMONS   TO   THE   FIELD.  27 

rail  to  Washington.  The  Quartermaster-General,  how 
ever,  declared  himself  unable  to  furnish  transportation 
for  an  earlier  hour  than  5  P.  M.  of  the  following  day,  the 
19th.  Three  o'clock  of  the  afternoon  of  the  19th  was  ac 
cordingly  fixed  as  the  hour  of  march  from  the  armory. 

The  publication  of  the  orders  in  the  newspapers  of  the 
18th  caused  a  spontaneous  rush  to  the  armory.  The  regi 
ment  was  already  filled  to  its  maximum,  and  hundreds  of 
recruits  were  turned  away.  It  would  have  been  easy  to  re 
cruit  a  brigade  in  a  day.  When  it  set  out  on  its  unknown 
path,  it  marched  991  strong. 

The  following  were  the  orders  for  the  march :  — 

GENERAL  HEAD-QUARTERS,  STATE  OF  NEW  YORK, 
ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S  OFFICE,  ALBANY,  April  17,  1861. 

In  pursuance  of  a  requisition  from  the  President  of  the  United  States, 
Major- General  Sandford  is  hereby  directed  to  detail  one  regiment  of 
eight  hundred  men,  or  two  regiments  amounting  to  the  same  number, 
for  immediate  service,  to  be  reported  forthwith  to  the  President  of  the 
United  States,  and  to  serve  until  relieved  by  other  regiments,  or  by  a 
regiment  or  regiments  of  the  volunteer  militia,  to  be  organized  under  an 
act  of  the  Legislature  of  this  State,  passed  April  16,  1861. 
By  order  of  the  Commander-in- Chief, 

J.  MEREDITH  READ,  JR., 

Adjutant-  General. 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  FIRST  DIVISION  N.  Y.  S.  M., 
NEW  YORK,  April  17, 1861. 

In  pursuance  of  the  foregoing  general  orders  No.  43,  from  General 
Head-quarters,  the  Seventh  Regiment  N".  Y.  S.  M.,  under  the  command 
of  Colonel  Lefferts,  is  hereby  detailed  for  immediate  service  at  the 
national  capital. 

Colonel  Lefferts  will  direct  his  Quartermaster  to  report,  at  noon  to 
morrow,  to  the  Major-General,  for  orders  for  the  transportation  of  the 
regiment,  its  camp  equipage  and  baggage,  and  for  a  requisition  for  a  suf 
ficient  quantity  of  ammunition  to  furnish  each  man  with  twenty-four 
rounds. 

Colonel  Lefferts  will  order  his  regiment  to  assemble  at  their  armory 
on  Friday  next,  at  3  o'clock,  P.  M.,  armed  and  equipped  for  embarkation, 
each  man  supplied  with  provisions  for  twenty-four  hours. 


28  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Colonel  Lefferts,  upon  his  arrival  at  Washington,  will  report  for 
orders  to  Lieutenant-General  Scott. 

The  Major-General  congratulates  the  Seventh  Regiment  upon  being 
the  first  corps  detailed  from  this  State,  in  response  to  the  call  of  the 
constituted  authorities  of  our  country,  to  support  the  Union  and  the 
Constitution,  and  to  vindicate  the  honor  of  that  glorious  flag  which  was 
consecrated  by  the  blood  of  our  fathers. 

Brigadier- General  Hall  will  promulgate  this  order  immediately. 
By  order  of 

CHARLES  W.  SANDFORD, 

Major- General  Commanding. 

GEORGE  W.  MORELL, 

Div.  Eng.,  Acting  Div.  Inspector. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT  N.  Y.  S.  M., 
NATIONAL  GUARD,  NEW  YORK,  April  18,  1861. 

In  compliance  with  orders  from  his  Excellency  the  Governor,  and 
division  orders  of  this  date,  this  regiment  will  assemble  at  Head-quarters 
on  Friday,  1 9th  instant,  at  three  o'clock,  p.  M.,  in  full  fatigue  and  overcoat, 
with  knapsack,  to  embark  for  Washington  City. 

The  men  will  each  take  one  blanket,  to  be  rolled  on  top  of  knapsack, 
suitable  underclothing,  an  extra  pair  of  boots  (shoes  are  better),  knife, 
fork,  spoon,  tin  cup,  plate,  body-belt,  and  cap-pouch,  to  be  carried  in  the 
knapsack.  The  men  will  provide  themselves  with  one  day's  rations. 

There  will  be  allowed  three  servants  to  each  company,  who  must  re 
port  to  the  Quartermaster  at  twelve  o'clock,  M.,  and  receive  their  "  pass." 
Each  officer  will  be  allowed  one  small  trunk,  which  must  be  distinctly 
marked  and  left  at  the  armory  before  twelve  M.,  19th  instant. 

All  uniformed  men,  whether  recruits  or  not,  will  report  for  duty.  Re 
cruits  who  have  just  joined  will  also  report,  and  will  be  assigned  a  post 
in  column. 

Commissary  Patten  will  receive  instructions  from  the  Colonel,  and 
leave  for  Washington  this  p.  M. 

Appointments.  —  J.  C.  Dalton,  Jr.,  M.  D.,  Surgeon's  Mate,  vice  Cam 
eron,  resigned.  By  order  of 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Colonel. 
J.  H.  LIEBENAU,  Adjutant. 

The  honorary  members,  and  members  of  this  regiment  who  from  cir 
cumstances  are  prevented  from  accompanying  the  regiment  to  Washing 
ton,  are  requested  to  sen,d  overcoats  and  knapsacks  to  the  armory,  care 
of  Sergeant  Scott,  armorer,  before  twelve  o'clock  to-day. 


THE   SUMMONS   TO   THE   FIELD. 

At  night,  pursuant  to  a  printed  call  issued  and  signed  by 
Asher  Taylor,  Adjutant  of  the  Veterans  of  the  National 
Guard,  the  latter  assembled  at  the  armory  to  take  meas 
ures  for  protecting  it  during  the  absence  of  the  regiment. 
Not  only  the  building,  but  the  streets  adjoining,  were  crowded 
by  the  excited  admirers  of  the  corps,  who,  till  late  at  night, 
made  the  building  ring  with  their  hearty  cheers.  Inside, 
everywhere  there  was  hurry  of  eager  youth,  "  buckling  on 
the  harness  of  war,"  while  the  Veterans  convened  in  the 
room  of  the  board  of  officers.  Colonel  M.  L.  Smith  took 
the  chair,  with  Major  J.  B.  Wilson  as  Vice-President.  Colo 
nel  Lefferts,  amid  great  cheering,  made  a  short  speech, 
commending  the  armory  to  the  Veterans.  Colonel  Ver- 
milye,  Jackson  S.  Schultz,  Esq.,  and  Captains  Cyrus  H. 
Loutrel,  Meigs,  and  Roome  responded,  accepting  the  trust, 
and  the  Veteran  roll  was  signed  by  large  numbers  of  ex- 
members. 

That  memorable  April  week,  which  began  with  the  clamor 
of  guns  against  Fort  Sumter,  and  ended  with  the  march  of 
the  Seventh  Regiment  in  New  York  and  the  bloodshed  in 
Baltimore,  is  still  fresh  in  memory.  As  the  largest  city  of 
the  Republic,  New  York  witnessed  the  most  fervid  exhibi 
tions  of  that  master-passion  of  war,  which,  for  the  moment, 
seemed,  throughout  the  land,  to  have  fused  and  consumed 
all  others.  Trade  stopped  in  its  channels  ;  counting-room 
and  workshop  alike  were  deserted ;  people  seemed  to  live 
in  the  streets,  the  better  to  see,  hear,  and  tell  what  alone 
was  worth  sight,  speech,  or  thought;  the  national  flag 
crowned  all  house-tops,  alike  the  church  and  the  factory,  and 
floated  from  all  the  shipping,  while  the  very  children  wore 
the  tricolored  ribbons  and  sang  war  songs  ;  all  public  bod 
ies  discussed  first  the  country's  needs  and  afterwards  their 
own  ;  clergymen  preached,  not  peace,  but  a  sword ;  men 
grouped  everywhere  to  talk  about  the  terrible  days  in  store  ; 


30  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   KEGIMENT. 

and  as  the  Seventh  Regiment  was  the  special  pride  of  the 
city,  its  prompt  devotion  was  the  constant  theme  of  grati 
tude  and  praise. 

It  would  be  impossible  to  repeat  all  the  words  of  cheer 
that  came  to  the  regiment  at  this  moment.  A  letter  sent 
by  Mr.  Peter  Naylor  at  this  time  to  Colonel  Lefferts  said : 
"  I  most  deeply  sympathize  in  the  cause  which  you  and 
your  noble  command  are  about  to  defend,  perhaps  in  bloody 
conflict,  to  maintain  the  supremacy  of  our  good  old  flag, 

now  floating  over  our  national  capital Please  find 

enclosed  my  check  for  one  hundred  dollars,  to  increase  the 

fund  appropriated  for  your  regiment A  gentleman, 

arrived  in  this  city  yesterday  directly  from  Mississippi,  has 
laid  a  wager  that  the  capital  would  be  in  possession  of  the 
secessionists  by  Monday  morning  next." 

Another  letter,  from  Dr.  J .  P.  Batchelder,  under  date  of 
April  19,  says:  "  In  the  box  accompanying  this  is  a  bullet 
which,  discharged  from  a  musket  in  the  hands  of  a  Tory 
traitor,  penetrated  the  side  of  my  father,  Lieutenant  Arche- 
laus  Batchelder,  at  the  battle  of  Bennington,  on  the  17th 
August,  1777.  Has  not  the  time  arrived  when  its  mission 
may  be  reversed  with  propriety,  i.  e.  from  a  musket  in  the 
hands  of  a  patriot  to  the  side  of  a  secession  traitor  ?  " 


THE   MARCH  TO   THE   WAR. 


31 


CHAPTER  III. 


THE   MARCH    TO    THE   WAR. 

HE  day  of  departure  dawned 
auspicious.  It  was  noted  as 
a  happy  omen  that  it  was 
the  anniversary  of  an  his 
toric  day, —  of  that  19th  of 
April,  made  illustrious  by 
the  "  embattled  farmers  " 
of  an  earlier  generation  of 
'  heroes :  but  not  till  later 
was  it  known  in  how  preg 
nant  a  sense  had  this  day 
brought  the  Lexington  of 
a  new  war. 

The  time  of  the  march  be 
ing  noised  abroad  through 
out  the  city  and  the  neigh 
borhood,  long  before  noon 
the  people  assembled  to  bid 
the  regiment  God  speed.  A 

million  spectators  crowded  and  jostled  along  the  line  of 
march.  Offices  and  stores  were  shut,  and  the  myriad 
cares  and  duties  of  ordinary  life  were  put  off  to  another 
day.  Old  and  young,  all  ranks  and  classes,  joined  in  the 
throng,  which  was  pervaded  by  an  electric  sympathy, 
breaking  all  bonds  of  custom.  Other  militia  regiments, 
stimulated  by  the  example  of  the  Seventh,  had  already 
followed  its  initiative,  and,  while  preparing  their  own 


32  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

march  for  a  later  day,  eagerly  cheered  that  of  the  corps 
whose  prerogative  it  was  to  lead  the  column. 

The  region  of  the  armory,  then  as  now  over  Tompkins 
Market,  was  especially  thronged ;  and  as  carriages  drove  up 
now  and  again  with  members  of  the  regiment  and  their 
families,  who  had  come  to  say  farewell,  each  soldier  lad  was 
hailed  with  cheers  and  blessings.  Within,  there  was  fitting 
of  uniforms,  buckling  of  belts,  rolling  of  blankets,  pack 
ing  and  strapping  of  knapsacks,  the  ring  of  the  rammer,  the 
calling  of  orders,  the  scuffle  of  busy  feet  hurrying  to  and 
fro,  the  cheery  laugh  and  joke,  the  hasty  messages  to 
friends,  joined  in  confused  sound.  Here  and  there  a  mem 
ber,  struck  with  sudden  contrition  for  past  delinquencies 
"  in  peace  times,"  was  hard  at  work  on  the  manual  of 
arms,  under  a  sergeant's  tutoring.  Veterans  were  pro 
testing  they  could  don  the  uniform  as  of  yore,  and  march 
with  the  best  of  the  "boys."  Recruits  were  turned  sor 
rowfully  away.  There  were  tender  farewells  too,  hearty 
grasps  of  the  hand  from  fathers  who  trembled  a  little  as 
battle  rumors  fell  on  the  ear ;  tears  and  kisses  of  mothers, 
sisters,  sweethearts,  wives,  who  came  with  cordials  and 
comforts  for  the  march,  and  with  sadder  gifts  of  lint  and 
bandages,  prepared  by  quivering  hands  at  home. 

The  officers,  consulting  anxiously  apart,  or  moving  from 
room  to  room,  giving  the  necessary  orders,  found  themselves 
overwhelmed  with  generous  offers  of  aid  for  the  regiment. 
Among  these  voluntary  offers  was  the  sum  of  $1,000  pre 
sented  to  Colonel  Lefferts,  forming  a  part  of  the  fund  al 
ready  referred  to,  to  "  do  what  he  pleased  with  for  the  com 
fort  of  the  regiment."  He  first  bought  revolvers  for  all  his 
officers,  and,  after  a  small  expenditure  in  addition,  turned 
over  the  balance  to  the  regimental  fund.  Clerks,  both  in 
public  offices  and  mercantile  houses,  had  received  leave  of 
absence,  with  wages  continued.  To  some,  advances  on 
salaries  had  been  given ;  to  others,  presents  of  money, 


THE   MARCH   TO   THE  WAR. 

clothing,  equipments.  Fathers  and  friends  had  been  pro 
fuse  with  dirks  and  revolvers,  for  service  in  that  "march 
through  Baltimore  "  which  the  Seventh  was  planning.  The 
few  who  left  young  families  behind  received  word  of  honor 
that  no  harm  or  want  should  come  to  them,  whatever  might 
betide  in  war.  The  Stock  Exchange,  the  Merchants'  Ex 
change,  the  Corn  Exchange,  and  similar  public  bodies, 
most  of  which  had  representatives  in  the  regiment,  were 
liberal  with  money  and  kindly  attentions.  Before  the  start, 
a  fine  national  flag  was  given  to  the  regiment  by  E.  H. 
Simon,  Esq.,  of  the  Seventy-First  Militia,  with  kindly  wishes 
from  the  donor,  and  a  fit  response  from  Colonel  Lefferts. 
To  a  member  of  the  5th  Company,  a  director  in  an  insur 
ance  company  pledged  an  annuity  of  $1,000,  to  be  settled 
on  his  wife,  in  case  he  should  fall  in  battle  ;  the  letter  was 
read  before  the  company.  Mr.  Edward  Minturn,  a  public- 
spirited  citizen,  was  especially  active  in  providing  funds 
for  the  immediate  requirements  of  the  regiment. 

And  there  were  sacrifices  made  by  men  of  the  regiment, 
too,  for  the  sake  of  marching.  To  many  the  prospect  of 
adventure  was  exhilarating ;  but  the  apparent  certainty  of 
speedy  battle,  and  the  thoughts  of  dear  ones  left  behind, 
banished  frivolity.  One  soldier  was  to  have  been  joined  in 
wedlock  the  Monday  coming,  and  the  guests  were  invited  ; 
the  nuptials  of  some,  were  recent,  those  of  others  had  been 
arranged  for  May ;  but  it  was  no  time  for  marriage  or 
giving  in  marriage. 

The  newspapers  of  the  day  of  the  march  and  the  day 
after  are  filled  with  descriptions  of  its  details.  One  of 
them,  depicting  the  scenes  in  and  around  the  armory,  re 
cords  for  us  the  ejaculations  of  the  hour  in  language  which, 
if  it  seems  overstrained  now,  vividly  tells  the  excitement 
of  that  day :  "  You  could  hear  the  advice,  4  Take  care 
of  yourself,  old  fellow,  and  I  '11  see  to  things  at  home ' ; 
the  promise,  '  I  '11  come  back  Dromoted,  father,  or  I  won't 


34  HISTORY   OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

come  at  all ' ;  and  then,  in  a  woman's  voice,  '  God  bless 
you.  I  shall  think  of  you  and  pray  for  you  all  the  time. 
It 's  very  hard  to,  but  — '  and  then  a  few  tears,  low  whis 
perings,  and  a  kiss 'By  George,'  laughed  another, 

adjusting  his  sword-belt,  '  I  came  up  here  to  bid  you  good 
by,  but  I  could  n't  stand  it,  so  I  jumped  into  these  things, 
and  am  going  along.'  '  What  do  you  think  the  Governor 
said  to  me  ? '  asked  a  young  recruit ; '  why,  he  said,  "  Remem 
ber  Sumter,"  and  vowed  he  'd  like  to  go  too.'  '  That 's  like 
Fanny ! '  shouted  another,  '  she  said  she  'd  go  if  she  were  a 
man.  Do  you  think  I  'd  back  out  after  that  ?  '  Another  : 
'  Here  's  a  bouquet  Mollie  sent  me.  Look  at  the  label : 
"  May  peace  bring  you  back  to  me  !  "  '  '  Mother  gave  me  this 
little  flag,  God  bless  her.  I  '11  never  disgrace  it.'  '  What 
do  you  think  of  that  for  a  badge '  (displaying  a  beautifully 
worked  rosette)  ;  '  that  goes  over  my  heart.'  Breaking  up 
these  conversations  there  came,  once  in  a  while,  cheers 
upon  cheers  for  the  Seventh  and  the  Union,  and  snatches 
of  national  songs,  shouted  with  hearty,  untremulous  voices." 

Just  before  the  start  the  people  and  the  regiment  were' 
thrilled  by  the  news  of  the  bloody  attack  on  the  Massachu 
setts  regiment  in  Baltimore  ;  and  when  it  was  known  that 
the  Seventh  would  u  go  through  Baltimore  at  all  hazards," 
the  excitement  became  intense. 

At  3  P.  M.,  the  rapid  roll  of  the  drum,  beating  the  as 
sembly,  put  an  end  to  the  stowing  of  cartridges  and  the 
filling  of  canteens,  to  the  cramming  of  knapsacks,  to  the 
leave-takings  of  friends.  Agreeably  to  orders,  Quartermas 
ter-General  Tompkins  had,  the  day  before,  arranged  for  the 
transportation  of  the  regiment  to  Washington  by  the  New 
Jersey  Railroad,  so  as  to  leave  the  foot  of  Courtlandt  Street 
at  five  o'clock  on  Friday  afternoon.  Informed  of  the  need  of 
despatch,  Mr.  Felton,  the  president  of  the  road,  had  sent 
from  Philadelphia  a  telegram  urging  haste.  It  was  as  fol 
lows  :  "  Don't  let  this  by  any  means  get  into  the  newspa- 


THE   MARCH  TO   THE  WAR.  35 

pers.  Make  your  arrangements  to  leave  New  York  as  many 
hours  earlier  than  five  o'clock  as  you  possibly  can."  The 
preparations  were  accordingly  hastened.  A  mammoth  van 
carried  off  the  officers'  baggage,  its  eight  horses  gayly  ca 
parisoned  with  flags  ;  and  the  people  cheered  the  banner 
furnished  by  one  of  them  to  the  driver,  on  which  was  writ 
ten,  "  Our  glorious  Seventh  knows  110  North,  no  South, 
no  East,  no  West,  but  only  the  whole  Union  !  "  The  two 
light  howitzers  (twelve-pounder  brass  pieces)  were  taken 
down  the  stairways  to  the  rear  of  the.  building.  Nine  cheers 
were  given  as  it  was  announced  that  every  gun  was  taken 
from  the  racks,  that  every  uniform  had  a  man  in  it,  and, 
that  the  march  would  be  through  Baltimore. 

The  orderlies  were  now  calling  their  rolls  in  the  company 
rooms,  and  the  men,  the  last  good-by  said,  rapidly  fell  into 
line.  The  captains  said  a  few  words  each  to  their  compa 
nies,  then  marched  them  into  position  in  the  large  hall  and 
drill-room.  The  eight  companies  were  overflowing,  and, 
adding  the  'men  who  joined  at  Jersey  City,  being  delayed 
from  sooner  reporting  for  duty,  the  regiment  was  991 
strong,  —  a  number  never  known  on  any  mere  show  parade. 
The  whole  body,  too,  was  perfectly  armed,  uniformed,  and 
equipped,  even  the  band  carrying  revolvers  wherewith  to 
defend  themselves  in  the  expected  street  brawls.  It  was 
thus  that  the  Seventh,  in  the  full  pomp  and  circumstance 
of  war,  carrying  not  only  the  physical  strength  of  a 
thousand  men,  but  all  that  inestimable  morale  which  at 
tends  fully  caparisoned  and  equipped  soldiery,  led  the  van 
in  the  march  of  New  York  to  the  war. 

At  four  o'clock  a  great  shout  went  up  from  the  crowd,  as 
the  regiment,  filing  out  of  the  armory,  marched  into  La 
fayette  Place,  forming  line  between  Fourth  and  Eighth 
Streets.  There  was  incessant  cheering  and  singing  of  na 
tional  airs  during  the  half-hour  while  the  regiment  was 
forming.  The  sergeants  having  reported,  and  assign- 


36  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

ments  having  been  made  to  equalize  the  companies,  pla 
toons  of  police,  sixty  strong,  now  opened  the  way,  the  band 
burst  out  with  martial  music,  the  howitzers  rattled  forward, 
drawn  by  the  men  assigned  to  them,  the  companies  wheeled 
into  column,  and,  amid  a  fresh  outburst  of  cheers  and  songs 
and  fresh  tears  and  farewell  gestures  from  the  overlook 
ing  windows,  the  regiment  moved  along  Lafayette  Place, 
bowered  in  flags  and  streamers,  turned  into  Great  Jones 
Street,  and  thence  into  Broadway. 

Broadway,  the  great  aorta  of  the  metropolis,  was  pulsing 
with  an  intensity  unexampled  in  the  city's  history.  For 
hours  the  people  had  swarmed  upon  every  standing-place 
along  the  two-mile  route,  climbing,  like  the  Roman  populace 
at  Pompey's  triumphs,  "  to  towers  and  battlements,  yea,  to 
chimney-tops."  The  transit  of  the  Eighth  Massachusetts 
Regiment,  earlier  in  the  day,  had  only  whetted  expectancy 
to  keener  edge  for  the  pageant  that  remained.  Struggling 
to  betoken  in  some  visible  symbol  the  feeling  within  them, 
all  the  people  had,  with  common  instinct,  resorted  to  the 
display  of  that  sacred  emblem  of  patriotism,  the  flag  of 
the  country.  Everywhere,  accordingly,  the  national  colors 
floated,  making  Broadway  a  carnival  scene.  Splendid  ban 
ners  flapped  in  the  wind  from  every  larger  house-top,  or 
curled  from  fresh  flag-staffs ;  pennants  streamed  from  ropes 
athwart  all  the  streets  of  the  city,  and  from  all  mast-heads 
in  the  harbor  ;  facades  were  swathed  with  broad  bands  of 
red,  white,  and  blue ;  flags  were  thrust  out  from  the  win 
dows.  As  if  ever  mindful  of  the  shame  of  Sumter,  men 
and  women  bore  the  tricolor  on  their  breasts,  wore  it  in 
their  hats,  fastened  it  to  their  horses'  heads,  and  caused  the 
very  children  to  wave  their  tiny  bunting  along  the  streets. 

In  such  garb  was  Broadway  decked  to  hail  the  regiment 
Zouaves  heading  the  column,  in  a  spontaneous  escort,  with 
red  shirts,  blue  flowing  trousers,  gay  fez  caps,  and  hairy 
knapsacks  trussed  up  behind  ;  the  motley  costumes  of  work- 


ERRATUM. 

The  name  CHARLES  J.  INGERSOLL,  printed  at  the  foot  of  the  Illustration 
entitled  "The  March  down  Broadway,"  should  read  JAMES  H.  INGERSOT.I,. 


36  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  KEGIMENT. 

ments  having  been  made  to  equalize  the  companies,  pla 
toons  of  police,  sixty  strong,  now  opened  the  way,  the  band 
burst  out  with  martial  music,  the  howitzers  rattled  forward, 
drawn  by  the  men  assigned  to  them,  the  companies  wheeled 
into  column,  and,  amid  a  fresh  outburst  of  cheers  and  songs 
and  fresh  tears  and  farewell  gestures  from  the  overlook 
ing  windows,  the  regiment  moved  along  Lafayette  Place, 
bowered  in  flags  and  streamers,  turned  into  Great  Jones 
Street,  and  thence  into  Broadway. 

Broadway,  the  great  aorta  of  the  metropolis,  was  pulsing 
with  an  intensity  unexampled  in  the  city's  history.     For 


.  w,v,  once  is  oi  tne  city,  and  from  all  mast-heads 

in  the  harbor  ;  facades  were  swathed  with  broad  bands  of 
red,  white,  and  blue ;  flags  were  thrust  out  from  the  win 
dows.     As  if  ever  mindful  of  the  shame  of  Sumter,  men 
and  women  bore  the  tricolor  on  their  breasts,  wore  it  in 
their  hats,  fastened  it  to  their  horses'  heads,  and  caused  the 
very  children  to  wave  their  tiny  bunting  along  the  streets. 
In  such  garb  was  Broadway  decked  to  hail  the  regiment 
Zouaves  heading  the  column,  in  a  spontaneous  escort,  with 
red  shirts,  blue  flowing  trousers,  gay  fez  caps,  and  hairy 
knapsacks  trussed  up  behind  ;  the  motley  costumes  of  work- 


H 


THE    MARCH   TO   THE   WAR.  37 

men  in  paper  caps  and  leather  aprons ;  the  handsome  attire 
of  the  regiment  itself,  and  their  flashing  bayonets,  —  made 
the  pavements  below  as  picturesque  as  the  bannered  para 
pets  above,  and  the  windows  dressed  with  the  gay  garments 
of  ladies.  Over  the  whole  the  sun  poured  the  glory  of  his 
parting  rays. 

It  was  less  a  march  than  a  triumphal  procession.  Many 
thousands  joined  the  moving  column,  preceding  the  march 
in  escort,  or  following  in  rear.  Street,  sidewalks,  areas, 
fences,  stoops,  balconies,  windows,  roofs,  nay,  trees,  lamp 
posts,  awnings,  every  foot  of  available  space,  held  specta 
tors,  and  for  long  distances  on  the  side  streets  the  compact 
throngs  struggled  for  a  glance.  So  soon  as,  at  any  point, 
the  people  caught  sight  of  the  familiar  gray,  black-trimmed 
uniform  and  caps,  set  off  by  the  blue  overcoat,  or  even  at 
the  shimmer  of  the  distant  bayonets,  they  took  up  the 
cheering,  which  never  for  a  moment  ceased.  At  every  point 
tradesmen  and  others  were  assembled  to  give  concerted 
cheers,  and  the  firemen  had  run  their  engines  up  the  side 
streets,  where  they  jangled  the  bells  as  the  regiment  passed. 
"  Was  there  ever  such  an  ovation  ?  "  wrote  gallant  Fitz 
James  O'Brien,  who  carried  a  gun  that  memorable  day. 
"  When  Trajan  returned  conqueror,  dragging  barbaric  kings 
at  his  chariot-wheels,  Rome  vomited  its  people  into  the 
streets,  and  that  glorious  column  that  will  ever  be  immor 
tal  was  raised.  But  what  greeted  the  Emperor  at  his  out 
set  ?  The  marble  walls  of  Broadway  were  never  before 
rent  with  such  cheers  as  greeted  us  when  we  passed.  The 
faces  of  the  buildings  were  so  thick  with  people,  that  it 
seemed  as  if  an  army  of  black  ants  were  marching,  after 
their  resistless  fashion,  through  the  city,  and  had  scaled  the 
houses.  Handkerchiefs  fluttered  in  the  air  like  myriads  of 
white  butterflies.  An  avenue  of  brave,  honest  faces  smiled 
upon  us  as  we  passed,  and  sent  a  sunshine  into  our  hearts 
that  lives  there  still." 


38  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

Thus,  through  the  multitudes  parting  for  a  moment  to 
let  the  regiment  pass,  surging  in  upon  the  column  at  every 
step,  and  closing  in  dense  masses  behind  it,  the  regiment 
marched  along  Broadway.  At  one  point,  such  was  the 
press  that  the  crowd  got  in  between  the  band  and  the  regi 
ment,  and  threatened  to  fatally  disrupt  the  order  of  march. 
The  police  were  quite  useless  ;  but  Colonel  Lefferts,  halting 
the  column,  caused  the  street  to  be  cleared  at  the  point  of 
the  bayonet,  and  then  marched  on.  Prompt  to  do  it  honor, 
Major  Anderson,  of  Sumter,  appeared  on  the  balcony  of  the 
store  of  Ball,  Black,  &  Co.,  and  the  companies  of  the  regi 
ment,  successively  pausing,  joined  in  the  thunders  of 
applause  with  which  the  people  greeted  the  foremost  Amer 
ican  of  that  day.  Then  onward  again,  under  the  canopy  of 
flags  and  amid  the  deafening  cheers,  pressed  the  regiment, 
threading  lower  Broadway.  As  they  marched,  presents  of 
all  sorts  were  handed  the  soldier  lads  from  the  jostling  by 
standers,  or  came  hurtling  from  roof  and  casement,  "  It 
was  worth  a  life,  that  march,"  writes  Winthrop.  "  Only 
one  who  passed,  as  we  did,  through  that  tempest  of  cheers, 
two  miles  long,  can  know  the  terrible  enthusiasm  of  the 
occasion.  I  could  hardly  hear  the  rattle  of  our  own  gun- 
carriages,  and  only  once  or  twice  the  music  of  our  band 
came  to  me,  muffled  and  quelled  by  the  uproar.  We  knew 
now,  if  we  had  not  before  divined  it,  that  our  great  city  was 
with  us  as  one  man,  utterly  united  in  the  great  cause  we 
were  marching  to  sustain.  This  grand  fact  I  learned  by 
two  senses.  If  hundreds  of  thousands  roared  it  into  my 
ears,  thousands  slapped  it  into  my  back.  My  fellow-citizens 
smote  me  on  the  knapsack,  as  I  went  by  at  the  gun-rope, 
and  encouraged  me  each  in  his  own  dialect.  '  Bully  for 
you ! '  alternated  with  benedictions,  in  the  proportion  of 
two  i  bullies '  to  one  blessing.  I  was  not  so  fortunate  as 
to  receive  more  substantial  tokens  of  sympathy.  But  there 
were  parting  gifts  showered  on  the  regiment,  enough  to 


THE  MARCH   TO   THE  WAR.  39 

establish  a  variety  shop.  Handkerchiefs,  of  course,  came 
floating  down  upon  us  from  the  windows,  like  a  snow. 
Pretty  little  gloves  pelted  us  with  love-taps.  The  sterner 
sex  forced  upon  us  pocket-knives  new  and  jagged,  combs, 
soap,  slippers,  boxes  of  matches,  cigars  by  the  dozen  and 
the  hundred,  pipes  to  smoke  shag  and  pipes  to  smoke  Lata- . 
kia,  fruit,  eggs,  and  sandwiches.  One  fellow  got  a  new 
purse  with  ten  bright  quarter-eagles.  At  the  corner  of 
Grand  Street  or  thereabouts,  a  '  b'hoy '  in  red  flannel  shirt 
and  black  dress  pantaloons,  leaning  back  against  the  crowd 
with  herculean  shoulders,  called  me :  '  Sa-ay,  bully !  take 
my  dorg !  he  's  one  of  the  kind  that  holds  till  he  draps.' 
This  gentleman,  with  his  animal,  was  instantly  shoved  back 
by  the  police,  and  the  Seventh  lost  the  '  dorg.'  These 
were  the  comic  incidents  of  the  march,  but  underlying  all 
was  the  tragic  sentiment  that  we  might  have  tragic  work 
presently  to  do." 

There  were  mottoes  and  inscriptions  flung  out  in  the 
path,  of  which  some  said  expressively,  "1775  — 1861"; 
others,  "  Remember  Lexington  and  Concord "  ;  others, 
"  Trust  in  God  and  keep  your  powder  dry,"  or,  "  The  Na 
tional  Guard  is  for  the  Union."  People  recalled  the  recent 
parade  of  the  regiment  in  honor  of  the  Prince  of  Wales, 
when  its  soldierly  appearance  was  warmly  praised  by  the 
royal  guest ;  but  contrasted  with  that  holiday  show  the 
present  was  grander  from  the  reflected  glory  of  its  great 
purpose.  But  one  of  the  writers  of  that  day,  carefully  no 
ticing,  saw  that  "  there  were  many  handkerchiefs  that  did 
not  wave,  but  were  pressed  convulsively  to  hide  the  starting 
tears  "  ;  while  on  the  side  streets,  along  the  margin  of  the 
hurrying  throng,  close  carriages  were  drawn  up  to  the  curb 
stones,  "  at  whose  back  windows  were  the  pale  faces  of 
mothers,  their  eyes  raining  tears  as  they  strained  for  one 
more  look  at  sons  marching  away." 

Swinging  at  length,  about  half  past  five,  out  of  Broadway 


40  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

into  Courtlandt  Street,  the  head  of  column  found  the  latter 
more  lavishly  decorated  than  any  other  part  of  the  route, — 
a  bewildering  bower  of  flags,  banners  festooned  and  clus 
tered  on  every  hand,  and  bands  and  streamers  crossing  the 
street  in  profusion.  Here  the  merchants,  from. the  business 
quarters  of  the  island,  had  been  waiting  for  hours,  and  now 
took  up  the  chorus  of  cheers.  The  wharves,  the  buildings 
on  the  dock,  the  ferry-houses,  the  vessels  in  the  harbor, 
were  also  gayly  decked  with  flags,  and  crowded  with  sympa 
thetic  spectators,  who  showered  blessings  on  the  Seventh  as 
it  entered  the  ferry-boat,  while  the  tugs  and  steamers  on  the 
river  rang  their  bells  and  sounded  their  whistles.  So  dense 
was  the  jam  in  the  square  fronting  the  ferry,  that  it  became 
impossible  to  march  the  regiment  through  in  order,  and  the 
men  escaped  as  best  they  could  from  the  caresses  of  the 
crowd  to  the  boat  on  the  river. 

Jersey  City  was  not  a  whit  behind  New  York  in  the  fer 
vor  of  its  greeting  and  the  splendor  of  its  holiday  attire. 
Here,  also,  men  and  women  had  since  morning  awaited 
the  regiment,  filling  the  region  around  the  ferry  landing  and 
the  railroad  depot.  Banners  everywhere  decorated  the 
facade  of  the  latter  building,  and  hung  from  the  galleries, 
roof,  and  cross-ties.  The  great  galleries  were  filled  with 
ladies,  and,  at  the  entrance  of  the  regiment,  the  band  play 
ing  the  "  Star-spangled  Banner,"  the  building  echoed  with 
applause.  "  The  whole  city,"  say  the  papers  of  the  day, 
"  turned  out  for  only  that  momentary  sight  of  the  Seventh, 
and,  as  if  to  make  up  for  the  shortness  of  the  time  by  an  in 
tensity  of  enthusiasm,  the  ladies  tossed  their  handkerchiefs, 
and  stripped  oif  their  ornaments  to  throw  to  the  soldiers,  as 
they  passed  along."  The  troops,  the  baggage,  and  the 
artillery  being  on  board,  the  long  train,  at  twenty  minutes 
of  seven,  rumbled  out  of  the  depot,  and,  amid  a  torrent  of 
farewell  cheers  and  blessings,  gayly  responded  to  by  the  sol 
diers,  the  Seventh  moved  away  to  its  unknown  mission. 


THE   MARCH   TO   THE   WAR.  41 

But  the  "  march  down  Broadway  "  was  not  the  end  of  the 
triumphal  progress  of  the  Seventh  Regiment.  As  they  hur 
ried  across  New  Jersey,  the  people  flocked  all  night  to  see 
them  and  cheer  them,  —  at  every  town  and  hamlet  men 
building  bonfires  on  the  route,  and  women  and  children 
bringing  flowers.  "  Everybody  has  heard,"  writes  Theodore 
Winthrop,  "  how  the  State  of  New  Jersey,  along  the  rail 
road  line,  stood  through  the  evening  and  the  night  to  shout 

their  quota  of  good  wishes I  think  I  did  not  see  a  rod 

of  ground  without  its  man,  from  dusk  till  dawn,  from  the 
Hudson  to  the  Delaware."  In  a  similar  strain,  Fitz  James 
O'Brien  says  :  "  All  along  the  track  shouting  crowds,  hoarse 
and  valorous,  sent  to  us,  as  we  passed,  their  hopes  and 
wishes.  When  we  stopped  at  the  different  stations,  rough 
hands  came  in  through  the  windows,  apparently  uncon 
nected  with  any  one  in  particular,  until  you  shook  them, 
and  then  the  subtle  magnetic  thrill  told  that  there  were 
bold  hearts  beating  at  the  end."  Telegrams  were  sent  for 
ward  to  Philadelphia  and  back  to  New  York  to  record  the 
rate  of  progress  of  the  train.  From  New  Brunswick,  N.  J., 
the  news  was  sent  by  telegraph  to  New  York :  "  The  route 
has  been  one  continual  ovation,  and  at  every  station  they 
have  been  greeted  with  the  booming  of  cannon  and  the 
shouts  of  thousands  of  the  patriotic  citizens  of  New  Jersey, 
who  have  almost  lined  the  road  ;  and  houses  at  a  distance 
of  half  a  mile  from  the  road  were  seen  illuminated."  Two 
hours  later,  at  eleven  o'clock,  came  the  telegram  from 
Philadelphia :  "  The  Seventh  not  arrived  yet,  though  ex 
pected  more  than  an  hour.  The  streets  are  thronged  to 
witness  them  march.  They  were  at  New  Brunswick  at 
nine  o'clock,  but  it  will  be  twelve  ere  they  reach  here." 

It  is  only  by  thus  recalling  minute  details  that  we  can 
now  appreciate  the  intense  interest  surrounding  every  step 
of  this  regiment,  and  the  reliance  everywhere  placed  upon  it 
in  that  hour  of  national  peril.  "  New  York,"  said  the  lead- 


42  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

ing  article  of  one  of  the  chief  daily  newspapers  of  that  city, 
on  the  morning  of  the  day  just  described, —  "  New  York  loves 
the  Seventh.  It  has  distilled  its  best  blood  into  it..  While 
the  regiment  is  away  from  the  city,  the  heart  of  New  York, 
as  if  connected  with  it  by  some  telegraphic  fibre,  will  thrill 
with  its  success  or  choke  at  its  disaster."  Some  days  later, 
the  wife  of  one  of  the  officers  of  the  regiment  wrote  to  him 
thus :  "  The  enthusiasm  here  about  the  Seventh  exceeds 
everything.  I  think,  if  a  member  of  it  is  injured  in  any  way, 
the  excitement  will  pass  all  bounds.  The  name  of  the  regi 
ment  is  in  every  one's  mouth  ;  every  one  seems  to  look  on 
each  member  of  it  as  a  near  relative."  Indeed,  the  very 
day  after  the  departure,  a  rumor  that  the  regiment  had 
been  attacked  and  had  suffered  severely  threw  the  whole 
city  into  tumult,  till  a  denial  came  in  the  evening  extras, 
issued  for  that  purpose. 

It  was  a  night  of  light-hearted  enjoyment,  however,  for 
the  younger  members  of  the  regiment,  with  a  great  deal  of 
singing  and  very  little  sleeping.  Once  seated  in  the  cars, 
they  had  taken  the  precaution  to  secure  a  good  meal  from 
the  delicacies  with  which  their  friends  had  loaded  them. 
Then  came  a  moment's  pause  in  the  excitement,  during 
which  they  looked  squarely  in  the  face  the  stern  mission  on 
which  they  were  speeding.  The  evening  papers  were  ex 
amined,  and  their  great  news,  the  fighting  in  Baltimore, 
was  discussed.  The  feeling  it  aroused  was  one  of  resolution 
and  of  vengeance.  On  all  hands  the  hope  and  the  expecta 
tion  were  expressed  of  "  going  through  Baltimore  "  on  the 
following  day.  These  earnest  discussions,  as  we  have  said, 
were  in  turn  succeeded  by  songs  and  pleasant  talk,  and 
interrupted  also  by  the  enthusiasm  of  the  Jerseymen  along 
the  route,  whose  demonstrations  prevented  sleep,  even  if 
the  cheery  talk  and  laughter  and  song  had  allowed  it. 
"  Those  fine  old  songs,"  writes  Fitz  James  O'Brien,  "  the 
choruses  of  which  were  familiar  to  all,  were  sung  with  sweet 


THE   MARCH   TO  THE   WAR.  43 

voice.  We  were  assured  many  times,  in  melodious  accents, 
that  « the  whiskey  bottle  lay  empty  on  the  shelf,'  and  sev 
eral  individuals  of  that  prominent,  but  not  respectable,  class 
known  as  c  bummers  '  were  invited  to  c  meet  us"  on  c  Ca 
naan's  happy  shore.'  The  brave  old  Harvard  song  of 
c  Upidee '  was  started,  and,  shameful  to  say,  Mr.  Longfel 
low's  '  Excelsior '  seemed  naturally  to  adapt  itself  to  the 
tune.  I  do  not  think  the  '  pious  monks  of  St.  Bernard ' 
would  have  been  edified  had  they  heard  themselves  alluded 
to  in  that  profane  music." 

The  "  Notes  on  the  Colors  of  the  National  Guard  "  says 
that  "  oranges  and  other  fruit,  pies,  cakes,  bouquets,  bottles 
of  wine,  pipes,  tobacco,  sandwiches,  boxes  of  segars,  and 
lots  of  other  things  were,  in  great  abundance,  at  every  halt, 
thrust  in  through  the  car  windows  to  the  men  ;  at  one 
place,  Burlington,  I  believe,  a  party  of  ladies  were  found 
waiting  in  the  street  and  at  the  depot,  long  after  midnight, 
with  pails  of  iced  water  and  tin  cups." 

At  length,  towards  two  in  the  morning,  the  train  rolled 
into  the  .Broad  Street  Depot.  A  messenger  came  into  the 
car,  lantern  in  hand,  and,  asking  if  Colonel  Lefferts  were 
there,  announced  to  him  that  Superintendent  Felton  was 
anxiously  awaiting  him  for  consultation. 

Here  for  the  present  let  us  leave  the  regiment.  The 
greater  part  made  their  way  to  the  hotels,  —  the  Lapierre, 
Continental,  and  Girard, —  while  others,  at  six  o'clock,  re 
ceived  a  good  impromptu  breakfast  at  the  Deaf  and  Dumb 
Asylum,  finding  the  superintendent  "  a  man  for  the  emer 
gency."  The  hospitality  *  of  the  people  of  Philadelphia,  as 

*  A  letter  signed  A.  A.  Curtis,  in  the  New  York  Herald  of  April  30,  1861,  says: 
"  The  people  of  Philadelphia  treated  us  very  well;  some  of  the  citizens  invited  us 
to  their  houses  to  dinner.     One  poor  widow  woman  opened  her  house,  and  gave  us* 
bread  and  coffee,  hot." 

Theodore  Winthrop  writes:  "  A  mountain  of  bread  was  already  piled  up  in  the 
station.  I  stuck  my  bayonet  through  a  stout  loaf,  and,  with  a  dozen  comrades 
armed  in  the  same  way,  went  about  foraging  for  other  vivres.  It  is  a  poor  part  of 
Philadelphia ;  but  whatever  they  had  in  the  shops  or  the  houses  seemed  to  be  at 


44  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

soon  as  the  city  was  awake,  made  up  all  deficiencies  in 
supplies. 

Such  w^re  the  outward  circumstances  that  attended  the 
march  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  to  the  war ;  but  that  which 
gave  this  event  its  deep  significance,  and  rendered  it  nation 
al  and  historical,  was  not  on  the  surface. 

It  was  the  fortune  of  the  National  Guard  to  make  the 
first  marked  declaration  of  opinion  which  committed,  de 
finitively  and  absolutely,  to  the  war  the  representative  city 
of  the  Union.  In  that  early  period  of  darkness  and  dis 
tress,  when  doubts  and  fears  possessed  men's  minds,  and 
hesitancy  and  difference  of  sentiment  paralyzed  action,  the 
Seventh  Regiment  boldly  declared  itself ;  and  in  so  doing 
pledged  New  York,  whose  foremost  families,  whose  wealth, 
and  whose  influence  it  represented  in  its  very  composition, 
to  the  cause  of  the  Union.  Its  instant  demonstration  was 
the  one  act,  which,  in  crystallizing  opinion,  fused  and  fixed 
New  York  in  allegiance  to  the  flag.  The  effect  upon  other 
militia  regiments  of  the  city  was  immediate  and  decisive. 
The  same  enthusiasm  spread  through  the  city,  and  the 
splendid  uprising  which,  on  the  20th  of  April,  assembled  a 
hundred  thousand  men  in  Union  Square,  was  the  electric 
response  to  the  challenge  of  the  National  Guard,  when,  at 
its  meeting  three  nights  before,  it  pledged  itself  to  the  flag 
and  the  Union. 

our  disposition.  I  stopped  at  a  corner  shop  to  ask  for  pork,  and  was  amiably  as 
sailed  by  an  earnest  dame,  —  Irish,  I  am  pleased  to  say.  She  thrust  her  last  loaf 
upon  me,  and  sighed  that  it  was  not  baked  that  morning  for  my  '  honor's  ser 
vice.'  A  little  farther  on,  two  kindly  Quaker  ladies  compelled  me  to  step  in. 
'  What  could  they  do?  '  they  asked  eagerly.  '  They  had  no  meat  in  the  house,  but 
could  we  eat  eggs  ?  They  had  in  the  house  a  dozen  and  a  half,  new  laid.'  So  the 
pot  to  the  fire,  and  the  eggs  boiled." 

The  "  History  of  the  Second  Company"  preserves  the  fame  of  a  rubicund  Fal- 
staff  of  the  "  City  Troop,"  who  visited  the  company,  whiskey  bottle  in  hand,  while 
it  was  seated  in  the  train  expecting  to  start  for  Baltimore.  Circulating  his  friendly 
bottle,  he  explained  that  he  was  a  horn-swoggler,  i.  e.  a  devotee  of  good  Bourbon; 
and  his  "  Go  in,  boys,  we  're  after  you,"  became  a  favorite  byword  in  the  cam 
paign. 


THE   MARCH   TO   THE   WAR.  45 

At  this  mighty  "  mass  meeting"  the  name  of  the  Seventh 
Regiment  was  on  every  lip.  The  gallant  and  eloquent  Sen 
ator  Baker,  of  Oregon,  who,  a  few  months  later,  fell  at 
Ball's  Bluff,  cried,  "  The  Seventh  Regiment  has  gone,  let 
seventy-and-seven  follow."  General  Dix  read  a  despatch 
which  said,  "  The  Seventh  Regiment  had  reached  Philadel 
phia  in  safety,  were  on  their  way  to  Annapolis,  and  would 
thence  march  to  Washington."  Governor  Raymond  said, 
as  the  papers  report :  "  1  understand  that  General  Scott 
has  sent  word  to  this  city  that  the  capital  is  in  danger. 
....  I  trust  in  Heaven  that  before  three  days,  ay,  before 
two  days,  at  least  fifty  thousand  men  will  be  concentrated 
at  the  capital  of  the  country  to  protect  it  from  the  hands  of 
traitors.  (Cries  of  '  What  about  the  Seventh  Regiment  ?  ') 
They  were  in.  Philadelphia  this  morning,  and  it  was  deter 
mined  that  they  would  be  sent  on  by  water,  but  I  believe 
the  Seventh  kicked  against  it,  and  were  anxious  to  go 
through  Baltimore.  (Great  cheering.)  The  Seventh 
Regiment,  they  would  recollect,  paid  a  visit  to  Baltimore, 
at  which  time  they  received  the  courtesies  and  hospitalities 
of  their  fellow-soldiers  there,  and  they  were  anxious  to  see 
whether  these  same  men  had  become  their  enemies  and  the 
enemies  of  their  country  at  the  same  time.  The  Seventh 
was  the  pet  regiment  of  New  York,  and  well  it  deserved  to 
be.  (Three  cheers  were  given  for  the  Seventh  Regiment, 
during  which  Mr.  Raymond  sat  down.) "  Mr.  Halleck 
"  called  upon  all  young  men  to  enroll  as  volunteers,  and 
to  proceed  to  Washington  to  strengthen  the  Seventh  Regi 
ment."  Mr.  Hull  "  made  allusion,"  says  the  report,  "  to 
the  events  at  Baltimore,  and  the  rumor  that  the  gallant 
Seventh  Regiment  had  forced  their  way  through  the  mob. 
(Cheers.)  The  news  was  not  precise  as  yet,  but  he  would 
say  that  if  the  Baltimoreans  had  spilt  one  drop  of  blood 
of  that  New  York  regiment,  the  resentment  to  "follow  would 
be  terrible." 


46  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

William  Curtis  Noyes's  reference  to  "  the  thousand  men, 
the  flower  of  the  city  of  New  York,"  was  received  with  like 
applause.  "  What  man,  by  words,"  said  Mr.  W.  J.  A. 
Fuller,  in  his  speech,  "  could  inspire  such  military  enthu 
siasm  and  ardent  patriotism  as  did  the  roll  of  the  drum 
and  the  tread  of  the  New  York  c  Imperial  Guard,'  the  gal 
lant  Seventh,  as  it  marched  through  our  streets  yester 
day  ?  "  In  fine,  alluding  to  the  same  great  march,  the  gal 
lant  0.  M.  Mitchell,  who,  like  Baker,  was  an  eloquent 
speaker  at  this  grandest  of  American  mass  meetings,  and, 
like  Baker,  soon  sealed  that  day's  pledge  with  his  life, 
said,  according  to  the  report :  "I  for  one  will  lay  my  life 
down.  It  is  not  mine  any  longer.  Lead  me  to  the  con 
flict.  Place  me  where  I  can  do  my  duty.  There  I  am 
ready  to  go,  I  care  not  where  it  leads  me.  My  friends, 
that  is  the  spirit  that  was  in  this  city  on  yesterday.  I  am 
told  of  an  incident  that  occurred  which  drew  the  tears  to 
my  eyes,  and  I  am  not  much  used  to  the  melting  mood  at 
all.  And  yet  I  am  told  of  a  man  in  your  city  who  had 
a  beloved  wife  and  two  children  depending  upon  his  per 
sonal  labor  day  by  day  for  their  support.  He  went  home 
and  said,  '  Wife,  I  feel  it  is  my  duty  to  enlist  and  fight  for 
my  country.'  /That  's  just  what  I  've  been  thinking  of 
too,'  said  she.  '  God  bless  you,  and  may  you  come  back 
without  harm  ;  but  if  you  die  in  defence  of  the  country,  the 
God  of  the  widow  and  the  fatherless  will  take  care  of  'me 
and  my  children."  That  same  wife  came  to  your  citv. 
She  knew  precisely  where  her  husband  was  to  pass  as  he 
marched  away.  She  took  her  position  on  the  pavement, 
and,  finding  a  flag,  she  begged  leave  just  to  stand  beneath 
those  sacred  folds  and  take  a  last  fond  look  on  him  whom 
she,  by  possibility,  might  never  see  again.  The  husband 
marched  down  the  street,  their  eyes  met,  a  sympathetic 
flash  went  from  heart  to  heart;  she  gave  one  shout  and 
fell  senseless  upon  the  pavement,  and  there  she  lay  for  not 


THE   MARCH   TO   THE  WAR.  47 

less  than  thirty  minutes  in  a  swoon.  It  seemed  to  be  the 
departing  of  her  life.  But  all  the  sensibility  was  sealed 
up.  It  was  all  sacrifice.  She  was  ready  to  meet  this  tre 
mendous  sacrifice  upon  which  we  have  entered,  and  I  trust 
you  are  all  ready.  I  am  ready.  God  help  me  to  do  my 
duty.  I  am  ready  to  fight  in  the  ranks  or  out  of  the  ranks. 
Having  been  educated  in  the  Academy,  having  been  in  the 
army  seven  years,  having  served  as  commander  of  a  volun 
teer  company  for  ten  years,  and  having  served  as  an  adju 
tant-general,  I  feel  I  am  ready  for  something.  I  only  ask 
to  be  permitted  to  act,  and  in  God's  name  give  me  some 
thing  to  do." 

Easily  may  we  imagine  that,  as  the  report  goes  on  to  say, 
"  the  scene  that  followed  the  close  of  Professor  Mitchell's 
eloquent  and  patriotic  remarks  baffles  description.  Both 
men  and  women  were  melted  to  tears,  and  voices  from  all 
parts  of  the  vast  multitude  re-echoed  the  sentiments  of  the 
speaker,  and  every  one  seemed  anxious  to  respond  to  the 
appeal  to  rush  to  the  defence  of  the  country." 


48 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


CHAPTER  IY. 


THE   NEW   PATH. 

HEN  the  Seventh  Regiment 
left  New  York,  it  fully  ex 
pected  to  march  through 
Baltimore  to  Washington. 
The  news  of  the  fighting  in 
Baltimore  had  fired  it  with 
the  ambition  of  forcing  its 
way  instantly  through  that 
city ;  and  the  press  tele 
gram  of  the  morning  from 
Philadelphia  told  the  coun 
try  :  "  The  Seventh  has  ar 
rived  here.  The  members 
generally  express  a  desire 
to  go  through  Baltimore." 
That  desire  was  doomed 
to  disappointment,  as  I  shall 
now  proceed  to  recount. 

Immediately  on  reaching 

Philadelphia,  Colonel  Lefferts,  who  had  expected  to  go  to 
Washington  by  rail,  was  informed  by  Mr.  Felton,  president 
of  the  Philadelphia,  Wilmington,  and  Baltimore  Railroad, 
that  the  passage  of  troops  through  Baltimore  had  been  for 
bidden  by  Governor  Hicks,  of  Maryland,  and  by  Mr.  Brown, 
Mayor  of  the  city,  who  had  telegraphed  Mr.  Felton  to  that 
effect. 

To  Colonel  Lefferts's  response  that,  if  not  allowed  to  go 


THE   NEW   PATH.  49 

peaceably  through  Baltimore,  he  must  force  a  path  through, 
Mr.  Felton  answered  that  Baltimore  could  not  be  reached 
by  the  train,  as  the  bridges  between  that  city  and  Havre  de 
Grace  had  been  destroyed  by  the  mob,  the  rails  torn  up. 
and  the  track  made  impassable.  This  latter  objection  Colo 
nel  Lefferts  saw  at  once  to  be  fatal  to  his  plan.  Mr.  Felton 
expressed  his  ability  to  take  the  train  through  to  Havre  de 
Grace,  if  that  were  desired.  But  the  real  difficulty,  name 
ly,  in  getting  from  Havre  de  Grace  to  Washington  —  a 
distance  of  eighty  miles  —  would  still  be  unsurmounted.  To 
attempt  to  march  his  men  that  distance,  unused  as  they 
were  to  campaigning,  unprovided  with  trains,  supplies,  or 
even  sufficient  ammunition,  was  not  for  an  instant  to  be 
thought  of.  As  to  the  prohibitions  of  Governor  Hicks, 
Mayor  Brown,  and  the  Baltimore  people,  who  had  sent  on 
their  menaces,  Colonel  Lefferts  freely  declared  they  would 
not  weigh  a  straw  with  the  regiment.  But  he  saw  that  it 
was  a  physical  impossibility  for  his  unprovided  force  to 
march  through  to  Washington  without  being  fatally  delayed 
on  the  route,  even  if  it  got  through  at  all. 

As  for  waiting  in  Philadelphia  till  trains,  supplies,  and 
ammunition  could  be  accumulated,  that,  too,  would  be  a 
fatal  delay.  The  sole  aim  of  Colonel  Lefferts — that  which 
absorbed  all  his  thoughts  and  enlisted  all  his  energies  —  was 
to  push  through  to  Washington  at  the  earliest  practicable 
moment,  whatever  the  route.  If  he  waited  in  Philadelphia, 
or  if  he  marched  on  the  railroad  through  Baltimore,  the 
object  of  his  mission,  the  relief  of  Washington,  would  cer 
tainly  be  foiled.  Promptly,  therefore,  Colonel  Lefferts  fixed 
his  attention  on  other  possible  routes  to  Washington. 

Before  proceeding,  however,  to  detail  the  interesting  se 
ries  of  events  that  grew  out  of  this  new  and  unexpected 
turn  of  affairs,  it  will  be  in  place  to  glance  at  some  historic 
surroundings  which  are  necessary  to  a  complete  compre 
hension  of  the  situation. 

4 


50  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

It  has  been  noted,  that  the  revolt  of  the  Marylanders  had 
interposed  a  bar  to  the  march  of  troops  to  Washington.  It 
is  now  a  matter  of  history  that  the  insurrection  in  Baltimore 
was  even  more  serious,  that  the  destruction  of  the  adjoin 
ing  railroad  was  more  thorough,  and  that  the  orders  not  to 
march  through'  the  city  were  from  higher  authority,  than 
the  Seventh  Regiment  was  aware  of  in  Philadelphia.  The 
mob  that  fought  the  Sixth  Massachusetts  ruled  Baltimore 
for  many  days  ;  they  pillaged  the  gun-shops  for  arms,  and 
the  bakeries  and  dram-shops  for  supplies.  While  the 
Seventh  was  traversing  New  Jersey,  an  armed  force  from 
Baltimore  captured  the  train  coming  from  Philadelphia,  and 
burned  that  night  three  railroad  bridges,  —  the  Canton 
Bridge,  Gunpowder  Bridge,  and  Bush  River  Bridge.  It  was 
ten  days  before,  by  great  energy,  the  railroad  could  be  rebuilt ; 
it  was  twenty-five  days  before  Baltimore  was  occupied  by 
Union  troops  ;  it  was  months  before  soldiers  from  the  North 
"  marched  through  Baltimore  to  Washington." 

A  letter  published  in  a  New  York  paper  of  that  period, 
says :  — 

"  I  left  New  York  half  an  hour  after  the  Seventh  Regiment ;  passed 
them  at  Elizabeth  ;  arrived  at  Canton,  an  outskirt  of  Baltimore,  at  four 
o'clock  on  Saturday  morning.  Found  the  bridge  at  that  place  in  flames. 
The  only  citizen  present  beside  myself  was  a  friend  originally  from  Balti 
more.  The  firing  was  in  charge  of  a  hook  and  ladder  company,  a  steam 
fire  company,  and  a  company  of  axemen,  the  latter  numbering  about  forty 
men.  As  soon  as  the  bridge  fell,  they  marched  in  good  order  up  the 
railroad  to  destroy  -the  main  bridges.  At  this  time  the  Seventh  Regi 
ment  was  supposed  to  be  about  two  hours  behind  us.  The  women, 
children,  and  passengers  were  deserted  wholly  by  all  connected  with  the 
train,  and  left  to  find  the  best  of  their  way  to  Baltimore.  My  friend 
and  myself  walked  around  the  creek ;  and  on  our  way  to  the  city  found 
the  artillery  regiment,  with  ten  brass  pieces,  assembled,  even  at  this 
unusual  hour,  four  o'clock  in  the  morning,  their  horses  all  harnessed, 
their  guns  run  out  into  the  street,  waiting,  ready  at  a  moment's  call,  the 
object  being  to  attack  the  Seventh  Regiment.  The  barricades  across 
Pratt  Street,  composed  of  carts,  timber,  anchors,  and  other  objects,  then 


THE   NEW   PATH.  51 

presented  themselves,  with  bullet-holes  and  other  marks  of  violence 
plainly  discernible.  Went  immediately  to  the  capital.  Washington 
is  quiet,  though  there  are  many  who  are  dissimulate.  All  other  parts 
of  Maryland  seemed  to  be  as  one  man  for  secession.  Returned  to  Bal 
timore  on  Saturday  night.  Found  the  city  in  the  greatest  state  of  ex 
citement.  On  Sunday,  all  the  churches  were  dismissed  without  service. 
The  streets  were  crowded  with  cavalry  and  troops  all  day  Sunday." 

Reference  has  been  made  to  the  "prohibition"  of  Gover 
nor  Hicks  and  Mayor  Brown,  and  to  the  authority  on  which 
they  claim  to  have  acted.  The  following  telegrams,  not  be 
fore  published,  will  give  some  idea  of  the  state  of  Baltimore 
at  that  time.  The  first  from  Mr.  Garrett,  President  of  the 
Baltimore  and  Ohio  Railroad,  to  Hon.  G.  W.  Brown,  Mayor 
of  Baltimore  (who  at  that  time  was  in  Washington,  argu 
ing  with  President  Lincoln),  runs  thus  :  — 

"  Three  thousand  Northern  troops  are  reported  to  be  at  Cockeysville. 
Intense  excitement  prevails.  Churches  have  been  dismissed,  and  the 
people  are  arming  in  mass.  To  prevent  terrific  bloodshed,  the  results  of 
your  interview  and  arrangements  with  President  Lincoln  are  awaited." 

In  two  hours  came  this  response  from  Washington :  — 

"  Your  telegram  received  on  our  return  from  our  interview  with  the 
President  and  Cabinet,  and  General  Scott.  Be  calm,  and  do  nothing. 
I  return  to  see  the  President  at  once,  and  will  telegraph  again.  Wallis, 
Bruce,  and  Dobbin  are  with  me." 

Two  hours  later  Mayor  Brown  telegraphed :  — 
"  We  have  again  seen  the  President,  General  Scott,  Secretary  of  War, 
and  other  members  of  the  Cabinet,  and  the  troops  are  ordered  to  return 
forthwith  to   Harrisburg.     A  messenger  goes  with  me  from  General 
Scott." 

In  fact,  the  President  had  already  written  to  Governor 
Hicks  and  Mayor  Brown,  on  the  20th  of  April,  in  answer 
to  the  letter  they  sent  by  Messrs.  Bond,  Dobbin,  and  Bruce, 
as  follows :  — 

"  Troops  must  be  brought  here,  but  I  make  no  point  of  bringing  them 
through  Baltimore.  Without  any  military  knowledge  myself,  of  course 
I  must  leave  details  to  General  Scott.  He  hastily  said  in  presence  of 


52  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

these  gentlemen  [the  three  messengers],  '  March  them  around  Balti 
more,  and  not  through  it.'  I  sincerely  hope  the  General,  on  fuller  reflec 
tion,  will  consider  this  practical  and  proper,  and  that  you  will  not  object 
to  it.  By  this  a  collision  of  the  people  of  Baltimore  with  the  troops 
will  be  avoided,  unless  they  go  out  of  the  way  to  seek  it." 

To  such  complexion  had  the  national  authority  come  at 
the  hour  when  the  Seventh  marched  to  the  relief  of  Wash 
ington  !  It  was  not,  however,  as  we  have  seen,  the  compact 
privily  struck  betwixt  the  rulers  of  the  Republic  and  the 
officials  at  Baltimore  which  had  determined  Colonel  Lef- 
ferts,  at  Philadelphia,  to  the  course  he  actually  took.  Ig 
norant  of  that  compact,  he  at  once,  on  receiving  from  Mr. 
Felton  positive  proof  of  the  enemy's  destruction  of  the 
railroad,  sent  the  following  despatch :  — 

PHILADELPHIA,  5  o'clock,  A.  M.,  April  20,  1861. 
HON.  S.  CAMERON,  Secretary  of  War,  Washington. 

SIR,  —  Having  arrived  at  Philadelphia,  we  are  informed  by  the  Presi 
dent  of  the  Philadelphia  and  Baltimore  Railroad  that  Governor  Hicks 
states  that  no  more  troops  can  pass.  In  fact,  the  Baltimore  and  Ohio 
Road  refuses  to  transport.  We  will  wait  for  instructions. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS. 

This  despatch  was  handed  to  Mr.  Felton  for  transmission 
upon  a  wire  from  his  office,  and  to  be  put  in  cipher,  which 
Mr.  Felton  said  he  was  then  using. 

.Time  passed,  and  again  the  Colonel  telegraphed.  No 
answer  came  to  these  messages.  Conjecturing  (as  indeed  it 
proved  true)  that  telegraphic  communication  had  been  de 
stroyed  by  the  enemy,  Colonel  Lefferts  then  took  the  respon 
sibility  of  deciding  his  own  route.  Two  ways  only  of  reach 
ing  Washington  were  open  to  him.  One  of  these  was  by 
the  Potomac  River,  the  other  by  way  of  Annapolis.  Both 
routes  had  advantages,  both  disadvantages  ;  the  absolute 
mystery  in  which  the  movements  of  the  enemy  were 
then  shrouded,  and  the  severance  of  communication  be 
tween  himself  and  Washington,  made  the  choice  a  difficult 
one.  He  judged  it  probable,  however,  that  if  so  far  north 


THE  NEW   PATH.  53 

as  Baltimore  secession  was  running  riotous  and  rampant, 
in  Virginia  affairs  would  be  worse.  He  judged  it  probable, 
also,  that  the  earliest  act  of  the  enemy  would  be  to  plant 
batteries  along  the  Potomac,  to  prevent  the  passage  of 
transports  with  troops  on  board.  Moreover,  he  foresaw 
the  importance  of  opening,  and  keeping  open,  the  route 
from  Annapolis  to  Washington,  in  any  event,  for  that  gath 
ering  militia  column  from  the  loyal  States,  whereof  his  own 
regiment  was  the  van. 

Accordingly,  Colonel  Lefferts  chose  the  route  to  Annapo 
lis.  At  quarter  past  eight  o'clock  of  the  same  morning  he 
sent  the  following  despatch  to  New  York.  The  message 
was  sent  in  a  cipher  which  the  Colonel  had  had  the  fore 
sight  to  arrange  with  his  brother-in-law,  Mr.  Allen. 

PHILADELPHIA,  Saturday  morning,  8.15  o'clock, 

April  20,  1861. 
W.  H.  ALLEN,  92  Eeekman  Street. 

We  cannot  go  by  way  of  Baltimore.  Will  go  to  Annapolis.  Require 
a  good  vessel  and  provisions  to  be  sent  there  immediately.  Go  with  this 
to  William  H.  Aspinwall  and  General  Sandford. 

M.  LEFFERTS. 

This  point  settled,  but  one  other  remained,  — how  best  to 
reach  Annapolis.  The  more  obvious  way  was  to  take 
steamer  at  once  at  Philadelphia,  and  proceed  thither.  Yet 
it  was  possible,  as  Mr.  Felton  said,  to  continue  on  the  rail 
road  as  far  as  Havre  de  Grace,  and  thence  embark  for  An 
napolis.  On  inquiry,  however,  it  was  found  that  the  only 
possibly  available  vessel  at  Havre  de  Grace  was  the  ferry 
boat  Maryland.  But  as  the  Rebels  had  already  got  so  far 
towards  Havre  de  Grace  in  their  work  of  destruction,  it 
was  probable  that,  foreseeing  this  move,  they  would  reach 
this  single  ferry-boat,  burn  or  disable  it,  and  so  ruin 
all  hopes  of  reaching  Washington  in  that  way.  To  guard 
against  this  contingency,  Colonel  Lefferts  resolved  to  secure 
his  steamer  at  Philadelphia,  and  go  by  the  Chesapeake  Bay 
to  Annapolis.  In  this  way  he  would  make  success  sure, 


54  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

while  the  time  lost  would  be  trifling  compared  with  the 
peril  of  depending  on  the  safety  of  this  single  boat  at  Havre 
de  Grace.  Besides,  to  go  by  sea  gave  a  chance  of  opening 
communication  with  government  vessels  near  Fort  Monroe, 
and  learning  from  them  the  situation  of  affairs  at  Wash 
ington.  If  the  Potomac  wTas  still  free,  or  if  a  convoy  could 
be  had  in  case  it  were  closed  by  batteries,  the  regiment 
could  be  hurried  rapidly  up  the  river  to  the  capital ;  other 
wise,  the  Annapolis  project  remained  open. 

Having  decided  upon  this  course,  Colonel  Lefferts  char 
tered  the  steamer  Boston,  and  hastily  fitted  her  up.  Three 
days'  rations  of  beef  and  bread,  and  some  extra  ammunition, 
were  bought  and  put  on  board,  and  two  o'clock  the  same 
afternoon  was  fixed  as  the  hour  of  departure.  This  vessel 
Colonel  Lefferts  chartered  and  provisioned  entirely  on  his 
own  responsibility,  drawing  drafts  on  his  firm  in  New  York 
for  the  money.  The  result  he  was  able  to  announce,  as 
early  as  eleven  o'clock  that  morning,  in  the  following  ci 
pher  message  to  New  York  :  — 

PHILADELPHIA,  11  o'clock,  April  20,  1861. 
W.  H.  ALLEN. 

We  have  chartered  the  steamer  Boston,  and  shall  try  to  go  up  to 
Washington.  May  return  to  Annapolis.  Show  this  to  same  parties. 
For  three  hours,  messages  will  reach  me  at  steamer  Boston,  foot  Spruce 
Street. 

M.  LEFFKRTS. 

It  is  proper  here  to  mention  that  the  course  of  the  com 
mandant  met  the  warm  approval  of  his  officers.  When 
Colonel  Lefferts  had  determined  that  a  change  of  route  was 
necessary,  he  assembled  the  captains  of  companies  in  coun 
cil,  and,  on  presenting  to  them  Mr.  Felton,  the  latter  again 
showed  his  telegraph  despatches  from  the  Maryland  officials 
and  the  agents  of  the  road,  and  restated  the  situation.  The 
officers  were  all  of  the  same  mind  with  their  Colonel ;  and  it 
was  manifest  that  a  common  sentiment  animated  the  whole 
command. 


THE  NEW   PATH.  55 

It  will  be  remembered  that  the  Eighth  Regiment  of  Mas 
sachusetts  militia  left  New  York  some  hours  before  the 
National  Guard.  That  regiment  reached  Philadelphia  on 
Friday  evening.  The  obstacles  in  the  path  of  the  Seventh 
now  lay  equally  in  that  of  the  Eighth  ;  and  during  Saturday 
morning  the  men  of  the  two  regiments,  encountering  each 
other  at  the  railroad  depot  and  in  the  streets,  exchanged 
rumors  and  speculations  upon  their  future  course.  Differ 
ent  in  composition  and  in  experience,  the  two  regiments  yet 
had  a  great-hearted  sympathy  of  loyalty  and  honor,  which 
infinitely  overlapped  the  narrow  distinctions  of  accidental 
circumstance,  and  at  sight  they  were  friends.  The  differ 
ence  of  temperament  in  the  men  —  grim  in  the  one  case, 
gay  in  the  other  —  served  afterwards  to  cement  their 
earner  aderie. 

With  the  Eighth  Massachusetts  had  come  Brigadier- 
General  B.  F.  Butler,  who,  as  a  Brigadier-General  of  the 
Massachusetts  militia,  had  been  put  in  command  of  the 
various  regiments  already  sent  by  Governor  Andrew  from 
that  State.  In  connection  with  this  officer,  and  his  pres 
ence  in  Philadelphia  contemporaneous  with  that  of  the 
National  Guard,  it  is  necessary  here  to  interpose  a  commen 
tary  upon  a  certain  historical  topic  which  to  the  Seventh 
Regiment  must  ever  be  of  the  highest  importance.  The 
want  of  harmony  between  the  officers  of  the  Seventh  and 
Brigadier-General  Butler,  and  the  mortification  experienced 
by  the  latter  on  finding  that  Colonel  Lefferts  declined  to 
put  the  regiment  under  his  control,  in  the  absence  of  author 
ity  for  such  a  procedure,  induced  him,  under  the  prickings 
of  wounded  vanity,  to  put  forth  some  gross  misrepresenta 
tions,  and  subsequently  led  some  unwise  friends  of  the 
Massachusetts  General  to  falsify  the  historic  facts  of  the 
period  whereof  we  now  write.  More  especially,  a  very  silly 
effort  has  been  made  in  some  quarters  to  rob  the  Seventh 
Regiment  of  a  part  of  its  well-won  laurels,  in  order  to  grace 


56  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

with  a  stolen  chaplet  the  brow  of  General  Butler.  That  por 
tion  of  this  effort  which  relates  to  the  credit  of  "  opening  the 
route  from  Annapolis  "  (the  undivided  credit  of  which  But 
ler's  friends  modestly  claim  for  him),  it  is  now  necessary 
to  pass  in  review. 

The  first  relations  of  Colonel  Lefferts  and  General  But 
ler  happened  as  follows.  Early  on  the  morning  of  the 
20th  April,  an  aid  came  to  Colonel  Lefferts  in  the  depot, 
saying  that  "  General  Butler  would  like  to  see  him  at  the  La- 
picrre  House."  Never  having  heard  of  that  officer,  Colonel 
Lefferts  inquired,  in  passing,  who  he  was,  and  observed  that 
he  himself  was  now  awaiting  despatches  from  Washington, 
but  would  be  happy  to  wait  on  him  at  a  later  hour.  About 
seven  o'clock  Butler  himself  came  down  to  the  depot,  and 
asked  Colonel  Lefferts  "  what  he  proposed  to  do."  The 
Colonel  answered  that  he  had  not  decided,  but  was  await 
ing  replies  from  Washington  to  his  messages.  There  the 
interview  terminated,  and  General  Butler  left  the  depot. 

Here  we  may  pause  to  note  \\ow  matters  stood  with  the 
Massachusetts  Brigadier.  He  had  reached  Philadelphia  the 
evening  before  the  arrival  of  the  Seventh,  at  which  time,  so 
far  as  was  known,  communication  remained  open  to  Wash 
ington.  Yet  he  had  not  only  done  nothing,*  but  seemingly 
had  formed  no  plan  of  procedure.  On  the  contrary,  as  has 

*  At  eleven  o'clock,  p.  M.,  of  the  19th,  Governor  Andrew,  at  Boston,  received 
word  from  Butler  at  Philadelphia  :  "We  shall  go  through  at  once."  At  midnight 
another  despatch  was  received  from  Butler :  "  I  will  telegraph  again,  but  shall  not 
be  able  to  get  ready  as  soon  as  I  hnd  hoped." 

A  letter  sent  from  Philadelphia  by  a  member  of  the  Eighth  Massachusetts  on 
the  night  of  the  19th,  and  published  in  the  Eastern  papers  a  few  days  later,  says: 
u  We  have  got  to  push  our  way  through  Baltimore,  in  the  morning,  at  the  point  of 
the  bayonet.  But  our  boys  are  determined,  and  in  for  it.  Our  bayonet  exercise 
has  got  to  put  the  whole  regiment  through.  To  tell  yon  the  truth,  our  boys  expect 
to  be  split  to  pieces.  But  we  have  all  made  up  our  minds  to  die  at  our  post.  We 
have  one  great  consolation  before  us :  the  famous  Seventh  Regiment  of  New  York 
will  join  us  to-night,  and  at  three  o'clock  in  the  morning  we  expect  to  take  up  our 
line  of  march.  There  is  an  unheard-of  hot  time  before  us.  We  are  furnished  with 
no  ammunition  as  yet,  and  are  to  rely  on  our  bayonets  and  revolvers  solely." 


THE   NEW    PATH.  57 

been  noted  above,  his  frame  of  mind  was  that  of  an  inquirer, 
and  his  whole  interview  with  Colonel  Lefferts  consisted  in 
asking  what  he  proposed  to  do.  It  puzzles  one  to  know 
why  Butler  had  not  pushed  through  to  Washington  when 
the  road  was  apparently  open.  Why  did  not  some  of  that 
irrepressible  energy  which  broke  out  later  in  the  day  mani 
fest  itself  in  some  determinate  action  ?  Was  he  waiting  for 
the  Seventh,  which  he  knew  to  be  on  the  way  ?  Whatever 
may  be  the  explanation  of  this  incomprehensible  inactivity, 
certain  it  is  that  the  General  cuts  a  very  different  figure  from 
the  doughty  dare-all  he  appeared,  when,  several  hours  later, 
he  had  become  acquainted  with  the  plan  of  Colonel  Lefferts. 

For  when,  about  10  A.  M.,  Butler  again  repaired  to -the 
depot,  he  was  informed  by  Colonel  Lefferts  (who,  as  has 
been  seen,  having  received  definite  information  of  the  state 
of  the  road  to  Baltimore,  had  already,  in  a  despatch  to  New 
York,  dated  8.15  A.  M.,  announced  his  decision)  that  the 
Seventh  Regiment  was  to  proceed  by  transport  to  Annapolis. 

This  information  had  a  remarkable  effect  upon  General 
Butler,  who,  seeing  that  the  Seventh  was  already  on  the 
point  of  departure,  now  eagerly  attempted  to  induce  Colonel 
Lefferts  to  fall  in  with  a  plan  which  he  then  for  the  first 
time  revealed.  This  was  that  Colonel  Lefferts  should  join 
his  regiment  to  the  Massachusetts  force,  and  that  the  whole 
command  should  go  forward  to  Havre  de  Grace  by  rail,  and 
there  take  a  boat  —  the  ferry-boat  Maryland  —  to  Annapolis. 

After  hearing  all  the  arguments  which  General  Butler 
urged  for  his  plan,  General  Lefferts  was  compelled  to  inform 
him  that  he  regarded  his  own  route,  previously  chosen,  as 
the  wiser,  under  all  the  circumstances.  But,  while  the  con 
sultation  went  on,  rumor  came  that  the  ferry-boat  had  been 
seized  and  barricaded.  General  Butler  then  admitted  that 
it  would  not  be  practicable  to  carry  out  his  first  plan,  and 
that  the  advance  by  rail  must  be  made  in  force. 

If  Colonel  Lefferts  had  before  been  at  all  disposed  to  va- 


58  HISTORY   OF    THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

cate  his  own  judgment  to  make  room  for  General  Butler's, 
this  last  intelligence  would  have  recalled  him  from  such  a 
purpose.  The  truth  was,  however,  as  we  have  seen,  that 
he  had  already  gone  over  the  geographical  question  thor 
oughly,  and,  having  considered  the  very  plan  which  General 
Butler  embraced,  had  deliberately  rejected  it.  Anxious, 
nevertheless,  to  reach  Washington  at  the  earliest  moment, 
he  listened  attentively  to  General  Butler's  project ;  but  he 
could  not  help  pointing  out  to  that  officer  that  the  very 
intelligence  just  received  regarding  the  Maryland  forbade 
the  idea  of  a  conjoined  march  to  Havre  de  Grace.  General 
Butler  was  acting  on  the  supposition  that  the  ferry-boat  had 
already  fallen  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy.*  To  imagine 
that  the  ferry-boat  was  already  "  seized  and  barricaded  " 
by  the  Rebels,  and  yet  that  its  machinery  would  be  left  in 
tact,  and  the  boat  unharmed  for  service,  on  the  approach  of 
a  large  hostile  force,  did  not  seem  quite  rational  to  Colonel 
Lefferts.  Yet  this  was  the  ground  taken  by  Butler,  who 
proposed  to  recapture  the  boat  from  the  enemy. 

Chagrined  by  the  refusal  of  Colonel  Lefferts  to  abandon  his 
projected  route,  Butler  went  about  his  own  business ;  but 
he  did  not  fail  to  vent  his  spleen  in  a  despatch  transmitted 
to  Governor  Andrew,  and  in  which  the  following  words 
occur : — 

"  Eleven  A.  M.  Colonel  Lefferts  has  refused  to  march  with  me.  I  go 
at  three  o'clock  to  execute  this  imperfectly  written  plan.f  If  I  fail,  purity 
of  intention  will  excuse  want  of  judgment  or  rashness." 

It  would  be  difficult  to  conceive  a  more  barefaced  piece 
of  suppressio  veri  than  is  wrapped  up  in  this  assertion. 

*  This  is  acknowledged  by  Parton.  "  The  plan  was  a  little  changed  in  the 
morning,  when  the  rumor  prevailed  that  the  ferry-boat  at  Havre  de  Grace  had 
been  seized  and  barricaded  by  a  large  force  of  Rebels.  The  two  companies  were 
not  sent  forward.  It  was  determined  that  the  regiment  should  go  in  a  body,  seize 
the  boat,  and  use  it  for  transporting  the  troops  to  Annapolis."  (''  General  Butler  in 
New  Orleans,"  p.  18.) 

t  "Imperfectly  written,"  indeed,  since  it  must  have  been  formed  since  the  inter 
view  with  Colonel  Lefferts,  less  than  an  hour  previous. 


THE   NEW   PATH.  59 

That  Colonel  Lefferts  "  refused  to  inarch  with  "  Butler  is 
true,  as  this  narrative  has  already  shown  ;  but  it  has  been 
seen  in  what  sense  it  is  true :  it  has  been  made  manifest 
that  this  refusal  on  the  part  of  the  commander  of  the  Na 
tional  Guards  resulted  from  a  careful  consideration  of  the 
situation,  which  dictated  the  rejection  of  Butler's  plan  as 
quixotic  and  unsure ;  and  that  this  plan  was  cast  aside  for 
a  line  of  action  previously  and  independently  chosen,  and 
better  fitted  to  realize  the  one  paramount  object  of  the 
march,  to  wit,  the  relief  of  Washington.  We  might  in 
deed  feel  disposed  to  pass  by  this  despatch  as  the  hasty 
utterance  of  a  splenetic  brigadier  ;  but  we  are  debarred  from 
such  a  course  by  the  fact  that  in  the  sketch  of  his  life  drawn 
up  by  Mr.  Parton,  under  Butler's  own  supervision,  the  biog 
rapher  has  reiterated  this  calumny  in  a  narrative  replete 
with  palpable  injustice  to  the  Seventh  Regiment.  It  be 
hooves  us,  therefore,  to  invite  the  renewed  attention  of  the 
reader  to  the  actual  facts  as  detailed  in  this  history. 

So  far  as  concerns  the  implication  contained  in  the  de 
spatches  and  the  book,  that  to  General  Butler  belongs  the 
sole  credit  of  discovering  the  military  importance  of  occupy 
ing  Annapolis,  and  of  reaching  that  point  by  way  of  Havre 
de  Grace,  this  narrative  has  already  set  that  matter  right. 
The  idea  occurred  to  Colonel  Lefferts  before  its  announce 
ment  by  General  Butler.  So  far  as  concerns  the  wisdom 
of  proceeding  by  rail  from  Philadelphia  to  Havre  de  Grace, 
or  by  boat  at  once  to  Annapolis,  we  have  also  set  forth  the 
considerations  that  governed  the  officers  of  the  Seventh 
Regiment. 

If  any  further  proof,  however,  be  wanted  on  this  latter 
point,  General  Butler's  biographer  is  the  witness  to  be 
called.  Mr.  Parton  tells  us,  as  we  have  seen,  that  the 
ferry-boat  had  been  reported  as  "  seized  and  barricaded  by 
a  large  force  of  Rebels."  If  this  were  so,  these  Rebels  could 
unquestionably  fire  or  sink  the  steamer,  or  ruin  her  ma- 


60  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

chinery,  or  even  carry  her  away  intact,  provided  they  were 
not  strong  enough  to  check  Butler's  movement  to  capture  it. 
As  this  was  the  only  boat  at  Havre  de  Grace,  General  Butler 
would  have  had,  at  best,  to  return  to  Philadelphia,  or  to  wait 
in  that  little  town  till  another  boat  could  be  sent  him.  In 
either  case,  the  delay  in  reaching  Washington  would  be 
unpardonable.  And  General  Butler  not  only  risked  the 
destruction  of  the  single  transport  by  the  Rebels  supposed 
to  hold  it,  but  its  destruction  by  our  own  forces.  Mr. 
Parton  writes  thus  :  — 

" '  I  may  have  to  sink  or  burn  your  boat,'  said  the  General  to  Mr. 
Felton. 

"'Do  so,'  replied  the  President,  and  immediately  wrote  an  order 
authorizing  its  destruction  if  necessary." 

What  General  Butler  had  proposed  to  do  with  the  Eighth 
Massachusetts,  in  case  either  he  or  the  enemy  had  sunk 
or  burned  the  ferry-boat,  we  shall  never  know.  But  it  is 
clear  that  the  position  of  that  regiment  in  neither  case 
would  have  been  enviable.* 

It  may  be  suggested  that  General  Butler  discredited  the 
report  of  the  seizure  of  the  ferry-boat.  This,  however,  is 
disproved  by  his  total  change  of  plan  of  advance,  predicated 
on  a  belief  in  that  intelligence  ;  and  it  must  be  owned  that 
the  news  was  at  that  time  probable  enough.  His  biographer 
also  puts  the  fact  beyond  doubt  by  detailing  the  plan  of  an 
attack  on  the  ferry-boat.  "  General  Butler,"  he  says,  "  went 
through  each  car,  explaining  the  plan  of  attack,  and  giving 
the  requisite  orders.  His  design  was  to  halt  the  train  one 
mile  from  Havre  de  Grace,  advance  his  two  best  drilled 
companies  as  skirmishers,  follow  quickly  with  the  regiment, 
rush  upon  the  barricades  and  carry  them  at  the  point  of  the 

*  Captain  Clark,  in  the  "  History  of  the  Second  Company,"  suggests  that  "  it  is 
more  than  probable  that  General  Butler  would  not  have  adopted  so  uncertain  and 
unreliable  a  route,  if  he  had  had  the  same  unlimited  credit  which  the  Seventh 
Regiment  possessed  in  Philadelphia,  and  which  secured  for  it  a  steamer  and  the 
necessary  supplies." 


THE   NEW   PATH.  61 

bayonet,  pour  headlong  into  the  ferry-boat,  drive  out  the 
Rebels,  get  up  steam,  and  start  for  Annapolis."  This  was 
the  strategic  plan  in  which  the  Seventh  Regiment  respect 
fully  declined  to  participate.  Mr.  Parton  "keenly  regrets 
the  refusal  of  officers  of  the  favorite  New  York  regiment 
to  join  General  Butler  in  his  bold  and  wise  movements," 
but  charitably  adds  that  "  they  doubtless  thought  that  their 
first  duty  was  to  hasten  to  the  protection  of  Washington, 
and  avoid  the  risk  of  detention  by  the  way." 

The  fact  is,  that  the  Seventh  went  to  Annapolis  in  the 
way  it  originally  proposed  to  go.  It  had  started  for  Wash 
ington,  and  its  first  duty  was  to  reach  that  city  at  the 
earliest  hour :  were  there  any  work  to  do.  it  would  be  quite 
as  likely  to  come  there  as  at  any  more  northerly  point.  The 
railroad  being  hopelessly  broken,  but  two  possible  routes 
remained,  the  one  up  the  Potomac,  the  other  by  way  of  An 
napolis.  Of  these  the  former,  if  practicable,  would  be  really 
the  shorter,  in  point  of  actual  hours  on  the  way.  Yet,  as 
it  was  probably  blockaded  by  hostile  batteries,  the  start 
from  Philadelphia  was  made  with  the  expressed  resolve  to 
turn  to  Annapolis,  unless  positive  official  news  was  received 
that  Washington  could  be  reached  sooner  by  way  of  the 
Potomac.  To  go  by  rail  to  Havre  de  Grace  was  a  mere 
experiment  in  an  hour  which  did  not  admit  of  doubts.  To 
steam  from  Philadelphia  gave  a  choice  of  the  Annapolis 
route  or  the  Potomac,  with  a  certainty  of  success.  The 
route  of  the  Seventh,  and  not  that  of  General  Butler,  was 
adopted  by  all  succeeding  regiments  from  the  North  for 
many  and  many  a  day. 

But  let  us  now  resume  the  thread  of  our  narrative.  The 
steamer  Boston  could  not  be  made  ready  till  four  o'clock. 
She  was  wont  to  ply  betwixt  Philadelphia  and  New  York, 
and  on  the  day  of  her  sudden  chartering  was  ready  to  start 
for  the  latter  port  with  a  full  cargo.  But  in  five  hours' 
time  the  cargo  was  out,  and  the  regimental  stores  and  bag- 


62  HISTORY    OF    THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

gage  iii.  Between  two  and  three  o'clock,  the  sergeants 
called,  "  Fall  in."  Soon  after,  the  regiment  was  tramping 
down  Jefferson  Avenue  to  the  wharf  where  the  Boston  lay, 
and  embarked.  It  was  surmised  at  once  that  the  boat  was 
a  "  snug  fit,"  with  no  room  to  spare  ;  at  4.20  the  hawsers 
were  cast  off  from  the  wharf. 

It  was  an  inexpressibly  lovely  April  afternoon,  worthy  of 
latter  May  or  June.  As  the  boat  left  the  dock  and  steamed 
down  the  Delaware,  the  multitude  of  spectators  broke  out 
into  hearty  cheers,  and  the  men-of-war  at  the  Navy- Yard 
manned  their  yards  and  dipped  their  colors.  The  regiment 
sent  back  responsive  cheers,  for  the  thought  of  a  forward 
movement  filled  all  faces  with  smiles  and  all  hearts  with 
joy.  Though  yet  uninformed  of  their  route,  an  inkling  of 
it  had  been  gained  by  the  troops,  and,  at  all  events,  they 
were  Southward  bound.  As  the  rays  of  parting  day 
streamed  over  the  boat,  lighting  up  the  picturesque  groups, 
and  brightening  their  gay  uniforms,  arms,  and  equipments, 
a  memorable  scene  was  presented.  "  Fellows  fumbling  in 
haversacks  for  rations,"  writes  O'Brien  in  his  spirited, 
sketchy  way,  "  guards  pacing  up  and  down,  with  drawn 
bayonets ;  knapsacks  piled  in  corners ;  bristling  heaps  of 
muskets,  with  sharp,  shining  teeth,  crowded  into  every 
available  nook ;  picturesque  groups  of  men  lolling  on  deck, 
pipe  or  cigar  in  mouth,  unbuttoned  jackets,  crossed  legs, 
heads  leaning  on  knapsacks ;  blue  uniforms  everywhere, 
with  here  and  there  a  glint  of  officers'  red  lighting  up  the 
foreground." 

Daybreak  of  Sunday  found  the  regiment  on  the  ocean. 
Another  delicious  day  had  dawned,  —  mild,  clear,  and 
bright,  the  air  soft  but  inspiring,  and  the  sky  befitting  the 
latitude  the  regiment  had  reached.  Very  fortunate  it  was 
for  the  regiment  that  the  weather  was  so  propitious. 
Transports,  from  time  immemorial,  .have  been  the  special 
horror  of  the  soldier.  With  all  provision  for  comfort,  lie 


.!,:.     hi;       .1";"   ' 


THE   NEW    PATH.  63 

usually  has  a  hard  lot  on  shipboard,  and  much  more  when 
the  voyage  is  sudden  and  without  preparation.  Lovely  as 
was  the  starry  night,  —  and  such  indeed  were  all  the  days 
and  nights  on  the  Boston,  —  when  the  members  of  the 
Seventh  came  to  compare  notes,  at  five  o'clock  on  Sun 
day  morning,  regarding  their  experiences,  they  found  them 
by  no  means  couleur  de  rose. 

The  thousand  and  more  men  filled  the  craft  to  over 
flowing,  from  the  upper  cabin  to  the  dark  and  damp  hold. 
The  men  slept  fti  their  overcoats  wherever  they  could, — 
some  on  bags  of  coal,  some  on  the  open  deck,  some  in  the ' 
close  hold,  —  "dovetailed,"  writes  one  soldier,  "  only  that 
there  was  very  little  of  the  dove  about  it."  *  However, 
what  was  lost  in  sleep  was  made  up  in  singing,  laughing, 
and  chatting;  reveille  at  five  stirred  up  all  the  sleepers, 
and,  crowding  out,  they  shook  themselves,  and  indulged  in 
the  luxury  of  a  wash  in  the  fire-buckets.  Guard-mounting 
and  drill  came  regularly  on  the  transport,  and  served,  in 
keeping  up  the  discipline,  to  remind  the  gay  campaigners 
that  it  was  no  holiday  task  they  had  in  hand. 

As  usual  on  transports,  especially  with  raw  troops,  the 
commissary  department  was  difficult  to  manage,  and  the 
regiment  fell  far  short,  both  in  quantity  and  quality,  of  .or 
dinary  army  rations.  A  biscuit  or  two,  and  a  small  bit  of 

*  Another  letter  says :  "About  nine  o'clock,  after  we  had  had  supper  (which 
consisted  of  a  piece  of  meat  and  a  hard  cracker,  served  up  in  pails,  each  man 
taking  a  chunk  of  meat  on  his  tin  plate),  we  rolled  ourselves  up  in  our  blankets, 
used  our  knapsacks  for  pillows,  and  laid  ourselves  on  the  soft,  downy  planks  of  the 
Bo-ton,  In  >-egular  style,  the  first  man  putting  himself  in  position,  and  each  man 
closing  in  with  him.  When  we  wanted  to  take  a  turn,  we  would  all  have  to  wake 
up  and  turn  together." 

The  Chaplain  of  the  regiment,  the  Rev.  Dr.  S.  H.  Weston,  in  his  devout  and 
eloquent  sermon  delivered  in  St.  John's  Chapel,  after  the  return  to  New  York, 
says :  "  The  boat  was  old  and  small,  and  even  in  smooth  water  careened  so  that 
the  men  had  to  be  moved  from  side  to  side  to  keep  her  on  an  even  keel.  How  so 
many  could  be  crowded  into  such  narrow  quarters  is  still  to  me  a  mystery.  What 
would  have  been  the  result,  in  the  event  of  a  heavy  storm,  it  is  fearful  to  contem 
plate.  The  lower  hold,  filled  with  men,  was  almost  unendurable;  with  the  hatches 
on,  it  would  have  been  a  '  Black  Hole.'  " 


64  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

beef,  comprised  the  short  allowance,  to  be  moistened  with 
"  a  vision  of  coffee  "  ;  but  the  dandies  and  epicures,  tin  cup 
and  tin  plate  in  hand,  filed  up  one  by  one  at  the  order,  "  Fall 
in  for  rations  !  "  and  made  up  for  lack  of  victuals  by  sur 
plus  of  good-humor.  In  guard  duty,  in  discussing  the  grim 
battle-work  believed  to  be  impending,  in  lounging  on  the 
decks,  watching  the  dim  line  of  shore  on  the  horizon  and 
the  wheeling  ducks  and  loons,  while  the  slanting  sun 
browned  and  hardened  the  pale  faces  of  the  city  youth, 
the  long  day  wore  away.  At  eleven  o'clock,  the  Episcopal 
service  was  read  by  the  Chaplain,  Dr.  Weston,  to  such  of 
the  men  as  could  get  within  hearing,  and  fitting  remarks 
were  made  thereon.  About  noon,  the  capes  of  Chesapeake 
Bay  were  reached. 

Evening  drew  on  apace,  and  as  the  -boat  sped  easily 
along,  it  appproached  to  where  it  became  needful  to  decide, 
once  for  all,  whether  to  continue  in  Chesapeake  Bay  to 
Annapolis,  or  to  deflect  therefrom  up  the  Potomac.  Ac 
cordingly,  as  Colonel  Lefferts  had  designed,  the  passing 
boats  were  hailed,  with  intent  to  find  out  whether  the  Po 
tomac  was  yet  blockaded  by  the  enemy  ;  for,  before  leaving 
Philadelphia,  Colonel  LefTerts  had  telegraphed  to  the  Secre 
tary  of  War  his  departure,  and  had  asked  to  be  met  off 
Fortress  Monroe  or  at  the  mouth  of  the  Potomac  by  a 
despatch-boat  with  orders  as  to  the  route  to  Washington. 
This  telegram,  the  wires  being  cut  by  the  enemy,  never 
reached  Washington ;  and  accordingly,  neither  from  the 
light-ship,  which  was  passed  and  hailed  at  five  o'clock,  nor 
from  the  other  vessels  in  the  neighborhood,  was  any  official 
news,  nor  any  favorable  news  whatever,  to  be  had. 

The  orders  now  given  to  the  captain  of  the  boat  were  "  to 
head  for  Annapolis  "  till  otherwise  instructed  ;  and  as  to 
attempt  the  Potomac  with  an  unarmed,  overcrowded  trans 
port  might  be  only  losing  time,  on  being  driven  back  by 
batteries,  to  Annapolis  the  boat  went  on. 


THE   NEW   PATH.  65 

Before  nightfall  there  was  no  longer  any  doubt  of  the 
proper  course.  The  only  news  derived  during  the  day  had 
been  the  story  (and  perfectly  true  it  proved)  of  a  Yankee 
skipper,  homeward-bound,  who  related  that  the  enemy 
(under  General  Taliaferro)  had  occupied  Norfolk  and  Ports 
mouth  in  force,  and  that  Gosport  Navy-yard,  with  all  its 
immense  stores  and  munitions  of  war,  had  been  abandoned 
and  burned  by  our  forces,  while  the  very  fleet  itself  had 
been  scuttled  and  was  that  moment  in  flames !  Such  a 
narrative,  falling  short  though  it  did  of  the  actual  truth, 
portended  sweeping  triumphs  of  the  enemy,  who,  with  the 
national  fleet  destroyed,  could  hardly  fail,  not  only  to 
blockade  the  Potomac,  but  to  keep  it  blockaded.  In  the 
councils  of  the  officers  on  this  point,  Colonel  S.  R.  Curtis, 
a  West  Point  officer  of  sound  judgment  and  of  large  expe 
rience  in  the  Regular  Army,  joined  cordially.  At  this  time 
he  was  a  member  of  Congress  from  Iowa  ;  but  he  immedi 
ately  re-entered  the  service  as  Brigadier-General  of  volun 
teers,  and  very  soon  as  Major-General  fought  the  famous 
battle  of  Pea  Ridge.  He  accompanied  the  regiment  from 
Philadelphia  to  Washington,  and  thence  wrote  to  the  New 
York  papers  a  eulogium  of  its  conduct  during  the  expedi 
tion,  to  which  we  shall  duly  refer. 

As  the  sun  went  down,  some  scores  of  the  finest  singers 
in  the  regiment  sang,  grouped  together  on  the  deck,  melo 
dious  religious  hymns.  As  the  softened  flood  of  harmony 
floated  out  upon  the  solemn  stillness  of  the  air,  the  scene, 
the  measureless  sea,  and  the  hour,  —  that  of  parting  day,  — 
added  effect  to  the  chant.  The  moon  rose  with  matchless 
beauty  to  complete  the  scene  ;  and  the  rugged  mate  of  the 
steamer,  glancing  toward  it,  saw  three  distinct  and  beautiful 
circles  surrounding  it,  —  red,  white,  and  blue  !  "  There  !  " 
he  cried,  "  is  our  flag  in  the  sky  !  God  never  will  let  it  be 
struck  down  under  foot!"  A  thrill  ran  through  the  men  as 
all,  looking  into  the  heavens,  recognized  the  phenomenon, 

5 


66  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

clear  and  unmistakable.  Cheers  and  songs  greeted  the 
felicitous  omen.  This  event,  related  in  many  private  let 
ters,  found  its  way  also  into  print,  and  was  celebrated  by 
some  of  the  poets  of  the  day. 

Soon  after  midnight  the  steamer  reached  the  mouth  of 
the  Severn.  The  engines  were  slowed,  and  she  crept  on 
ward  at  a  snail's  pace,  waiting  for  the  day.  Dawn  found 
the  steamer  at  the  mouth  of  the  harbor  of  Annapolis  ;  and 
when  the  morning  fog  lifted,  it  disclosed  directly  ahead  a 
frigate,  with  sails  unbent,  and  the  stars  and  stripes  flying 
to  the  morning  breeze.  Hearty  cheers  burst  from  the 
crowded  decks  of  the  Boston  at  the  sight  of  the  dear  em 
blem.  As  the  steamer  came  up,  the  man-of-war  hailed, 
"  Let  go  your  anchor  !  "  This  order  was  repeated  many 
times  before  it  was  understood,  and  meanwhile  motions 
were  made,  from  the  frigate  to  back ;  at  length  her  ports 
were  opened,  her  guns  run  out,  and  the  gunners  took  their 
places.  Then  the  Boston  slowed,  and  was  again  hailed. 
"  Are  you  the  Seventh  Regiment  of  New  York  ?  "  "  Yes  !  " 
"  Let  go  your  anchor,  and  send  an  officer  on  board."  Al 
ready  the  anchor  was  let  go  and  t*  boat  lowered,  when  a 
naval  officer  put  off  from  the  frigate,  reached  the  Boston, 
and  quickly  returned  to  his  own  ship,  accompanied  by 
Colonel  Lefferts.  It  was  the  renowned  frigate  Constitu 
tion,  the  school-ship  of  the  Naval  Academy,  saved,  as  .his 
tory  has  recorded,  from  falling  in  her  old  age  into  the 
hands  of  the  enemy  watching  to  seize  her. 

The  greeting  received  by  the  Boston  showed  that  her 
arrival  had  been  expected.  Yonder,  half  a  mile  farther 
on,  was  the.  steamer  Maryland,  hard  and  fast  on  a  mud- 
bank  ;  and  her  decks  were  crowded  with  the  Eighth  Massa 
chusetts,  their  bayonets  glittering 'in  the  sun.  And  in  the 
distance,  farther  up  the  beautiful  bay,  girt  with  its  verdure- 
clad  banks,  rich  in  Maryland  farms  and  plantations,  rose 
the  roofs  and  spires  of  Annapolis. 


THE   SEVENTH  AT   ANNAPOLIS. 


67 


CHAPTER    Y. 


THE  SEVENTH  AT  ANNAPOLIS. 

HEN,  on  the  morning  of 
April  22d,  the  steamer 
Boston  dropped  anchor  in 
front  of  the  little  capital 
of  Maryland,  the  National 
Guard  discovered  that  their 
comrades  of  the  Eighth 
Massachusetts  had  reached 
the  harbor  of  Annapolis 
before  them.  The  Mary 
land,  however,  was  aground, 
and  the  sorry  plight  in 
which  the  Seventh  found 
their  gallant  friends  re 
moved  all  disposition  to 
banter  them.  Whether 
from  the  crowded  freight 
of  men,  or  the  negligence 
of  the  pilot,  the  Maryland, 

after  waiting  in  the  harbor  from  early  dawn  of  Sunday  to 
that  of  Monday  without  landing  her  troops,  was,  in  the  cap 
tain's  mano3uvres,  stuck  fast  in  the  mud.  However,  a 
good  service  had  been  rendered  in  the  interim  by  General 
Butler,  who,  at  the  request  of  Captain  Blake,  commanding 
the  Constitution,  had  towed  Old  Ironsides  away  from  the 
shore  to  a  safe  distance  from  the  hostile  militia,  who  men 
aced  each  moment  to  seize  her.  Besides  this,  General  But 


68  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

ler  had  had  a  day's  wrangling  with  Maryland  authorities, 
who  wished  to  prevent  him  from  landing.* 

Colonel  Lefferts  now  promptly  addressed  himself  to  the 
task  of  landing  and  occupying  Annapolis  in  force.  He  had 
already,  in  a  letter  written  the  previous  day,  informed  Gen 
eral  Sandford  of  the  movements  of  the  regiment,  and  now 
appended  thereto  a  hasty  postscript.  The  following  is  the 
letter,  with  its  postscript;  they  verify  what  has  already 
been  said  regarding  the  Annapolis  route  :  — 

ON  BOARD  STEAMER  BOSTON, 
Sunday,  3  o'clock,  p.  M  ,  April  21,  1861. 
GENERAL  SANDFORD. 

I  sent  a  cipher  despatch  yesterday  to  W.  H.  Allen,  92  Beekman  Street. 
the  translation  of  which  I  requested  might  be  handed  to  you,  and  also  to 
William  H.  A  spin  wall.  I  fear,  however,  that  some  trouble  may  have  been 
experienced  in  making  it  out.  I  therefore  repeat  the  substance  of  it. 

We  arrived  in  Philadelphia  about  daylight  on  Saturday  morning.  I 
was  informed  by  the  president  of  the  railroad  between  Philadelphia  and 
Baltimore  that  we  could  not  go  by  way  of  Baltimore ;  that  Governor 
Hicks,  the  Mayor,  etc.,  had  telegraphed  that  no  more  troops  must  come 
that  way.  I  should  still  have  forced  my  way,  but  was  informed  by  the 
same  authority  that  the  Baltimore  and  Ohio  Road  refused  to  transport, 
and  that  bridges  had  been  burnt,  etc.  I  then  turned  my  attention  to 
some  other  route.  Later  in  the  day  I  was  informed  by  the  Quarter 
master-General  of  Philadelphia  that  he  had  a  despatch  from  Government 
stating  that  communication  was  cut  off  between  Baltimore  and  Washing 
ton.  I  then  chartered  the  steamer  on  which  we  now  are,  and,  at  the 
time  of  writing  this,  am  entering  Chesapeake  Bay.  I  telegraphed  to 
the  Secretary  of  War,  immediately  on  our  arrival  at  Philadelphia,  that 
we  could  not  go  through,  and  were  waiting  for  instructions.  I. received 
no  answer  to  this  up  to  the  time  of  my  departure,  so  that  I  was  com 
pelled  to  act  upon  my  own  responsibility.  Upon  leaving,  I  again  tele 
graphed  him  through  the  only  channel  open  (the  president  of  the  Phila 
delphia  and  Baltimore  Road),  that  we  would  leave  that  P.  M.  by  steamer 
for  Washington.  I  expected,  therefore,  on  reaching  this  point  (off  Fort 

*  Here  was  a  second  instance  of  masterly  inactivity  on  General  Butler's  part. 
He  had  passed  an  entire  day  and  night  in  exchanging  missives  with  the  Annapolis 
authorities  about  landing  his  troops.  On  the  other  hand,  as  we  shall  presently  see, 
Colonel  Lefferts,  though  arriving  with  his  regiment  so  much  later,  was  the  first  to 
land  his  troops  and  take  possession  of  the  town. 


THE   SEVENTH   AT   ANNAPOLIS.  69 

Monroe)  some  kind  of  instruction,  but  see  no  Government  vessels  in 
sight.  I  have  decided  to  go  on  as  far  as  the  mouth  of  the  Potomac,  and, 
should  there  be  no  Government  vessel  there,  shall  proceed  to  Annapolis 
to  keep  open  that  line  of  communication,  —  an  indispensable  necessity  in 
future  operations.  Upon  arriving  at  Annapolis,  I  shall  of  course  be 
guided  by  circumstances.  We  may  have  to  march  from  thence  to  Wash 
ington,  without  Government  controls  the  railroad.  Of  course  I  am 
placed  in  a  very  embarrassing  position,  but  must  do  the  best  I  can, 
keeping  in  view  the  object  we  had  when  we  started.  I  forgot  to  say 
that,  in  the  cipher  despatch  to  W.  H.  Allen,  I  requested  that  you  would 
immediately  cause  a  vessel  with  supplies  to  be  sent  to  Annapolis,  as  it  is 
only  a  town  of  some  eight  hundred  inhabitants,  and  those  not  friendly ; 
and,  should  we  be  compelled  to  intrench  ourselves  at  that  place,  we 
might  have  difficulty  in  provisioning. 

Monday  morning,  8.30  o'clock. 

We  have  arrived  at  Annapolis,  and  find  some  of  the  Massachusetts 
troops  here.  We  shall  land,  and  endeavor  to  make  our  way  to  Wash 
ington.  We  should  have  reinforcements  and  provisions  sent  here  at 
once.  I  can  give  no  further  information.  There  is  considerable  ex 
citement. 

M.  LEFFERTS,  Colonel. 

He  also  prepared  the  following  telegram,  to  be  sent 
through  General  Butler.  It  is  dated  at  1  P.  M.,  "  on  board 
steamer  Boston,"  and  is  addressed  to  Secretary  Cameron  :  — 

"  My  command,  about  one  thousand  strong,  arrived  and  ready  for 
duty.  All  well  Provisions  short.  Colonel  Curtis,  who  is  with  me, 
volunteers  in  any  capacity." 

The  luckless  Maryland  was,  as  we  have  seen,  aground ; 
and  the  Seventh  Regiment  asked  themselves  what  the  con 
dition  of  things  would  have  been  had  they  been  on  Butler's 
transport,  fixed  on  the  bar.  However,  instead  of  hurrying 
to  gain  for  his  own  regiment  the  glory  of  first  occupying 
Annapolis,  Colonel  Leiferts,  when  informed  by  Captain 
Blake,  on  his  visit  to  the  Constitution,  of  the  sorry  plight 
of  the  Massachusetts  regiment,  expressed  his  desire  to 
use  the  Boston  at  once  for  towing  her  consort  off 
from  the  shoal  where  she  had  stuck  hard  and  fast.  Ac- 


70  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT- 

cordingly,  when  the  tide  rose,  the  Boston  steamed  up  to 
the  Maryland  to  assist  her.  The  persevering  Massachu 
setts  lads  had  for  hours  been  resorting  to  all  sorts  of  devices 
to  get  clear,  and  had  put  forth  herculean  efforts  ;  they  threw 
over  baggage-trucks,  coal,  crates,  shifted  themselves  forward 
and  aft,  and  ran  suddenly  from  side  to  side,  but  all  in  vain. 
Now  the  Boston  gave  them  a  hawser,  and  tugged  for  hours 
at  the  top  of  her  engine-power  ;  all,  too,  in  vain. 

Meanwhile,  Colonel  Lefferts  and  a  few  of  his  officers  had 
gone  ashore  to  consult  with  the  officers  of  the  Naval  School, 
and  to  learn  from  them  the  situation.  Communication  was 
opened  in  this  way,  also,  with  General  Butler,  who  had,  as 
we  shall  presently  see,  requested  Colonel  Lefferts's  advice 
and  co-operation  in  endeavoring  to  land  his  troops.  Colonel 
Lefferts  was  met  by  the  Mayor  of  Annapolis,  who  formally 
protested  against  his  landing.  He  replied  that  he  should 
be  obliged  not  only  to  land,  but  to  force  his  way  through  to 
Washington,  and  that,  for  the  "  bloodshed  "  they  predicted, 
those  must  be  responsible  who  should  oppose.  The  naval 
officers,  being  then  appealed  to  by  the  Mayor  to  testify 
upon  the  sentiment  of  the  people  of  Maryland,  confessed 
that  it  was  so  impregnated  with  "  States'  rights  "  that  they 
seemed  disposed  to  resist  any  "  invasion  "  of  their  soil  by  any 
forces.  Colonel  Lefferts  again  responded  that  his  regiment 
had  been  ordered  to  go  to  Washington,  and  would  go,  — 
peaceably  if  they  could,  forcibly  if  they  must. 

Returning,  soon  after  noon,  to  the  steamer,  Colonel  Lef 
ferts  determined  to  land  his  regiment.  But  first  he  caused 
the  effort  to  relieve  the  Maryland  to  be  continued  some 
hours  longer.  This  labor,  however,  for  the  sake  of  the 
main  enterprise  and  of  the  comfort  of  both  regiments,  had 
at  length  to  be  ended.  Crowded  and  half  famished,  de 
barred  so  long  from  sleep  and  from  exercise,  the  Seventh 
were  anxious  to  get  ashore  and  to  be  on  their  way.  As  for 
the  Massachusetts  men,  they  had  suffered  still  more  from 


THE   SEVENTH   AT   ANNAPOLIS.  71 

fatigue,  famine,  and  want  of  sleep;  for  General  Butler's 
movement  —  having  taken  little  thought  of  failure  or  delay, 
had  been  conducted  without  sufficient  rations.  Mr.  Parton 
tells  us  the  hapless  men  of  the  Eighth  were  "  packed  as 
close  as  negroes  in  the  steerage  of  a  slave-ship  "  ;  that  "  the 
General  trod  upon  many  a  growling  sleeper  "  ;  that  the 
ration  served  out  was  "  the  allowance  of  a  biscuit,  an  inch 
of  salt  pork,  and  a  tin  cup  half  full  of  water  "  ;  that  the  men 
were  "  tired  and  hungry,  black  with  coal-dust,  and  torment 
ed  with  thirst,  —  the  General  himself  not  tasting  a  drop  of 
liquid  for  twelve  hours  "  ;  and  that  "  his  men  were  almost 
fainting  for  water."  The  Chaplain  of  the  Seventh  adds : 
"  Some  in  their  agony  drank  salt-water,  and  became  de 
lirious."  Grimy  and  haggard,  their  faces  black  with  the 
coal-dust  in  which  they  had  been  living,  their  stomachs 
empty,  their  muscles  tired  with  tugging,  the  gallant  fellows 
were  hardly  less  glad  than  the  Seventh,  when  the  latter, 
heading  towards  the  government  dock,  called  out  that  they 
would  send  back  the  steamer  to  relieve  and  debark  them. 

At  five  o'clock  the  Boston  touched  the  wharf,  and  the 
regiment  marched  to  the  green  slope  stretching  down  from 
the  Academy  to  the  Severn,  and  so  encamped  at  Annapolis, 
—  the  pioneers  of  the  war  in  occupying  that  city. 

The  route  of  the  regiment  had  now  been  vindicated  in 
practice,  as  it  had  before  been  sanctioned  by  theory.  The 
voyage  from  Philadelphia  was  a  rough  initiation  into  service, 
but  not  to  be  compared,  as  we  have  seen,  with  the  experi 
ence  of  the  Eighth  under  General  Butler.  These  hardships 
would  have  been  intensified  by  the  more  than  double  pres 
sure  proposed  to  be  put  upon  the  single  transport  and  its 
supplies.  The  Eighth  was  724  strong;  the  Seventh,  991. 
Of  course  it  would  have  required  three  trips  and  three 
return  trips  for  the  Maryland  to  have  taken  them  all, 
"  packed  as  close  as  negroes  in  a  slave-ship  "  at  that.  These 
six  trips,  and  the  time  of  embarkation  and  disembarkation, 


72  HISTORY   OP   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

would  have  brought  the  whole  force  into  Annapolis  many 
hours  later  than  by  the  Seventh  Regiment's  route.  A 
part  of  the  Seven th,  if  not  the  whole,  would  have  been  left 
behind  at  Havre  de  Grace,  unless  it  had  countermarched 
to  Philadelphia,  nor  would  there  have  been  any  Boston  at 
hand  to  help  the  stranded  Maryland.  Such  was  the  union 
of  discomfort,  delay,  and  mishap  which  the  Seventh  had 
declined. 

A  large  detail  was  at  once  put  on  guard,  at  the  dock, 
over  the  baggage  and  stores,  and  around  the  temporary 
encampment  arid  its  stacked  arms ;  another  detail  was 
made  for  fatigue  duty  in  unloading  the  steamer,  so  giving  a 
broad  hint  to  the  new  campaigners  that  a  good  soldier 
must  occasionally  be  something  of  a  porter ;  and  there  was 
soon,  too,  a  busy  attendance  on  the  company  messes,  with 
"  buckets  of  cooked  meat  and  crackers."  Then  the  men 
bade  good  by  to  their  transport  Boston,*  which  Colonel 
Lefferts  sent  back  to  the  aid  of  the  Massachusetts  men,  all 
of  whom  were  landed  before  dawn. 

The  batch  of  Maryland  protests  against  the  Seventh's  in 
vasion  was  not  all  unladen.  The  Mayor  and  a  delegation 
of  the  citizens  met  Colonel  Lefferts  in  the  town  and  dis 
bursed  the  balance.  To  hint,  menace,  entreaty,  argument, 
that  officer  only  replied  that  they  must  talk  about  those 
things  at  Washington,  whither  he  was  bound  at  all  speed. 
His  Honor  Mr.  Mayor  of  Annapolis  then  modestly  requested 
that  Colonel  Lefferts  would  take  his  regiment  outside  of  the 
city,  adding  that  its  presence  "  was  a  great  outrage,  would 
lead  to  trouble,"  etc.  "  That  rests  with  yourselves,"  re 
joined  the  Colonel :  "  if  let  alone,  we  shall  disturb  nobody  ; 


*  "  Good  by  to  her,  dear  old,  close,  dirty,  slow  coach !  "  cries  Winthrop.  "  She 
served  her  country  well  in  a  moment  of  trial.  Who  knows  but  she  saved  it  ?  It 
was  a  race  to  see  who  should  first  get  to  Washington;  and  we  and  the  Vir 
ginia  mob,  in  alliance  with  the  District  mob,  were  perhaps  nip  and  tuck  for  the 
goal." 


THE   SEVENTH   AT   ANNAPOLIS.  73 

• 

but  you  must  keep  hands  off."  In  order,  however,  to  show 
that  he  had  no  other  than  the  most  peaceable  designs,  Colo 
nel  Lefferts  offered  to  leave  immediately  for  Washington, 
provided  the  Annapolis  authorities  would  supply  the  regi 
ment  with  provisions  and  wagons  for  the  sick  and  wounded, 
adding  that  the  full  price  would  be  paid.  The  Mayor  made 
answer  that  wagons  could  not  be  furnished  ;  and  so  these 
high  diplomacies  came  to  an  end. 

Colonel  Lefferts  next  called  his  officers  together,  and  laid 
before  them  the  facts  reported  to  him  by  the  United  States 
officers  and  others  with  regard  to  the  condition  of  Mary 
land.  All  communication  with  Washington  had  been  cut ; 
Baltimore  as  long  ago  as  Friday  was  in  arms  ;  Annapolis 
was  hostile  ;  Norfolk,  Portsmouth,  and  Gosport  Navy-yard 
had  fallen  ;  the  railroad  had  been  torn  up  by  the  enemy  be 
tween  Annapolis  and  Washington  ;  the  Seventh  Regiment 
was  in  the  van  (save  for  the  heroic  Sixth  Massachusetts) 
of  the  armed  and  equipped  militia,  marching  to  relieve  the 
menaced  capital, —  and  what  delays  it  had  met !  It  seemed 
probable  that  Washington  must  have  already  fallen.  It 
was  therefore  resolved  to  press  forward  early  in  the  morn 
ing  by  forced  marches  to  Washington.  Aware  of  the  impor 
tance  of  reopening  the  railroad  thither,  the  regiment  would 
gladly  have  undertaken  that  task ;  but  the  unknown  fate  of 
Washington,  which  might  be  sealed  by  a  single  hour's  de 
lay,  forced  it  to  choose  the  bolder  alternative  of  marching 
at  once  by  the  turnpikes.  Preparations  were  therefore 
made  for  an  early  march  on  the  following  (Tuesday)  morn 
ing  ;  and  as  the  regiment  had  only  ten  rounds  of  ammuni 
tion,  and  no  provisions  beyond  the  morning's  ration,  means 
were  promptly  taken  to  procure  supplies. 

Already  the  regiment  had  been  drawn  from  the  green 
sward  into  the  old  fort,  whose  scanty  quarters  were  soon 
occupied  with  the  tired  troops,  rolled  up  in  their  blankets, 
with  knapsacks  for  pillows,  and  enjoying  the  unwonted  lux 


74  HISTORY   OF    THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

• 

ury  of  sleeping  at  full  length  on  the  floor  or  the  ground. 
Maugre  the  closeness,  it  was  a  paradise  to- the  Boston,  and 
the  hospitable  midshipmen  kindly  took  as  many  as  possible 
of  their  new  friends  into  their  own  rooms  in  the  navy  build 
ings.  The  cooks,  who  had  supplied  hot  coffee  wherewith  to 
moisten  the  Seventh's  rations  of  salt  pork  and  beef,  prom 
ised  greater  favors  for  the  morning ;  in  short,  the  whole 
Academy,  from  commandant  to  servant,  treated  the  Seventh 
with  great  kindness.  Save  the  strong  detail  for  guard,  who 
now,  in  the  white  moonlight,  for  the  first  time  paced  their 
beats  in  a  hostile  country,  the  regiment  was  overcome  with 
refreshing  sleep. 

Before  sunrise  the  regiment  was  astir,  and  more  new  sen 
sations  were  enjoyed,  —  awash  at  the  pump  and  a  break 
fast  on  the  grass.  It  was  a  queer,  ancient,  somnolent  city 
on  whose  outskirts  the  regiment  was  now  posted,  "  looking 
very  much,"  said  O'Brien,  in  marching  through  it,  "as  if 
some  celestial  school-boy,  with  a  box  of  toys  under  his  arm, 
had  dropped  a  few  houses  and  men  as  he  was  going  home 
from  school,  and  the  accidental  settlement  was  called  An 
napolis."  The  ancient  structures  along  its  narrow  and 
winding  streets  were  interspersed  with  some  finer  mansions, 
and  towering  above  them  was  the  old  State  House,  where 
Washington  resigned  the.  command  of  the  first  Union  army. 
The  fort,  half  a  century  old,  and  shabby  enough  for  pur 
poses  of  defence,  was  set  off  by  the  fine  Academy  buildings 
and  the  pretty  grounds,  and  even  by  its  grimly  protruding 
muzzles,  over  which  waved  the  national  ensign.  The  uni 
forms  of  the  cadets  (pleasant  and  well-bred  fellows),  and 
those  of  their  new  comrades,  the  Seventh,  decorated  the 
scene.  The  long,  slender  piers  stretched  into  the  pictu 
resque  bay,  where  lay  the  Constitution,  Maryland,  and  Bos 
ton.  The  day  was  very  warm,  but  charming.* 

*  Theodore  Winthrop  humorously  notes  the  general  hair-cutting,  or,  as  we 
might  say,  the  shaving  of  heads,  according  to  the  inevitable  rite  of  the  priesthood 


THE   SEVENTH   AT    ANNAPOLIS.  75 

Officers  and  men  were  making  ready  for  instant  march, 
hastily  writing  a  few  words  home,  knowing  not  what  a  day 
might  bring  forth.  Some  of  these  letters,  or  extracts  from 
them,  written  that  morning,  found  their  way  into  the  papers 
of  New  York.  One,  from  an  officer,  says  :  — 

"  We  shall  shortly  march  for  Washington.  Cannot  get  horses,  and 
shall  have  to  leave  our  baggage  and  any  unable  to  march.  We  are  in 
an  enemy's  country,  and  cannot  buy  even  an  egg.  Very  many  of  us  slept 
on  the  ground  last  night,  but  the  weather  was  warm  and  pleasant.  We 
expect  to  have  fighting  by  the  way  to  Washington.  Men  in  good 
spirits." 

Another,  dated  "  Annapolis,  April  22,  9  o'clock,"  and 
signed  J.  H.  A.,  says  :  - 

"  We  expect  to  march  from  here  to  Washington  to-day The 

boys  talk  of  nothing  but  war,  and  are  true  to  the  Union  to  a  man." 

A  third  closes  spiritedly  in  these  words  :  — 

"  We  are  all  resolved  to  do  our  duty,  and  die,  if  need  be,  marching 
under  the  flag  and  keeping  time  to  the  music  of  the  Union.  The  con 
viction  is  that,  even  if  we  are  all  killed,  such  a  feeling  will  be  excited 
throughout  the  country,  that  all  the  Union  men  of  all  the  States  will 
rally  to  the  call  of  the  drums,  and  put  down  rebellion  and  treason. 

"  GEORGE." 

A  fourth  says  :  — 

"  I  stand  it  much  better  than  some  of  the  poor  devils  around  me,  who 
faint  from  privation  and  fatigue.  We  are  now  on  shore,  in  one  of  the 
finest  countries  I  have  ever  seen,  with  plenty  of  good  water.  Rumors  fly 
thick  that  we  are  surrounded  by  enemies  on  every  side,  and  will  have  a 
bloody  march  of  it.  We  went  at  the  call  of  duty  to  do  service  for  our 
country,  and  not  only  am  I  prepared  to  suffer  fatigue,  but  to  spill  my 
blood  in  her  cause.  The  war  feeling  predominates,  and  we  are  to 
march." 

A  fifth  soldier  writes  to  the  Evening  Post :  — 

"  We  were  finally  quartered  for  the  night  in  the  old  fort  built  during 

who  sacrifice  at  the  altars  of  Bellona,  and  without  which  no  recruit  would  believe 
himself  a  soldier.  "  It  was  the  day  we  had  our  heads  cropped.  By  evening  there 
was  hardly  one  poll  in  the  Seventh  tenable  by  anybody's  grip." 


76  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

the  war  of  1812.  Never  did  men  enjoy  sleep  more  than  we  did,  as  we 
rolled  ourselves  up  in  our  blankets  and  stretched  out  at  full  length, 
with  a  knapsack  for  a  pillow.  This  was  a  luxury  not  before  enjoyed  by 
many  of  us  since  we  had  left  New  York ;  for  our  boat  was  so  excessively 
crowded  that  only  a  favored  few  could  so  indulge.  The  Massachusetts 
troops,  whom  we  found  here  on  our  arrival,  disembarked  this  morning 
from  the  ferry-boat. 

"  H.  E.  T." 
A  sixth  writes  home  :  — 

"  The  war  seems  to  have  begun,  and  I  have  got  into  the  sport ;  but  I 
am  determined  to  stand  by  the  stars  and  stripes  to  the  bitter  end.  I 
shall  do  my  duty  at  every  hazard.  We  will  show  these  traitors,  before 
we  are  through  with  them,  that  we  are  as  brave  as  they  ;  I  believe  that 
God  and  the  right  are  on  our  side,  and  we  must  succeed. 

«E.  C." 

A  seventh,  W.  E.  C.,  says :  — 

"  DEAR  FATHER,  —  We  arrived  here  last  night.  We  have  taken 
entire  possession  of  this  town.  If  we  had  not,  the  Rebels  would,  so  we  are 
very  comfortable  now.  The  Rebels  have  all  the  rails  up  from  here  to 
Washington." 

An  eighth,  from  on  board  the  Boston,  writes  :  — 

"  All  are  well  and  in  good  spirits,  and  we  will  give  a  good  account  of 
ourselves.  The  secession  men  have  everything  on  the  Potomac,  and  it 
is  reported  to  us  that  Washington  is  in  their  hands.  We  are  going 
there,  at  all  events,  or  we  will  be  heard  of  no  more. 

"  Tell  the  Union  boys  to  come  along  in  strength ;  there  is  work  to  do, 
and  it  must  be  done  at  once. 

"  Thank  God,  this  regiment  is  a  unit,  and  will  do  its  duty." 

A  ninth,  from  the  same  place,  says :  — 

"  We  are  about  to  land  and  march  to  Washington,  —  by  force,  if 
necessary.  We  expect  to  fight." 

A  tenth,  C.  R.  S.,  says  :  — 

"  The  supposition  is  that  we  shall  fight  all  the  way  through,  as  it  is 
reported  that  there  are  15,000  soldiers  ready  to  oppose." 

But  these  examples  will  doubtless  suffice  to  show  the  tone 
and  spirit  of  the  Seventh  at  Annapolis.  These  letters  were 


THE   SEVENTH   AT   ANNAPOLIS.  77 

av writ-couriers  in  that  mighty  host  of  u  soldiers'  letters  " 
which  for  four  years  thereafter  continually  went  North 
from  "  the  front,"  to  straining  eyes  and  beating  hearts  at 
home. 

All,  it  is  seen,  were  alert  for  the  expected  start ;  but 
checks,  unlocked  for  and  vexatious,  interposed.  Early  in 
the  morning  the  quartermaster  and  his  party  began  to  hunt 
after  transportation  suitable  for  the  baggage,  supplies,  am 
munition,  and  sick,  on  the  road  to  Washington.  But  ser 
viceable  animals  and  wagons  could  not  be  procured  at  any 
price,  —  the  very  few  secured,  after  much  exertion,  being 
unfit  for  the  exigencies  expected.  Provisions,  too,  were 
only  with  the  greatest  difficulty  obtained.  Cash  down  was 
demanded  and  paid  for  everything,  especially  as  the  city 
still  claimed  to  be  loyal. 

At  this  juncture  Colonel  Lander  and  one  other  messenger 
came  in  from  Washington.  General  Scott,  troubled  at  the 
delay  of  the  regiment,  had  sent  forward  no  less  than  eight 
messengers  with  despatches  to  Annapolis.  Of  these  eight 
messengers  two  only  got  through  ;  the  rest  were  stopped  by 
falling  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy,  or  from  other  causes.* 
Colonel  Lander  also  had  been  captured  by  scouts,  but  by 
a  ruse  de  guerre  escaped.  His  news  was  that  the  "  situ 
ation  of  affairs  at  Washington  was  extremely  critical,  and 
that  the  Government  was  intensely  anxious  that  the  Seventh 
Regiment  should  hasten  to  its  relief."  This  intelligence 
strengthened  Colonel  Lefferts  in  his  purpose  to  push  through 
by  the  wagon-road,  rather  than  to  delay  at  all  in  repairing 
the  railroad  track.  Efforts  were  redoubled  to  secure  rations, 
ammunition,  and  a  makeshift  of  a  train.  But  soon  after 
another  messenger  came  in,  direct  from  Washington,  with 
later  despatches  from  head-quarters  to  the  commanding 

*  Commissary  Patten,  who  had  been  sent  through  to  Washington  by  Colonel 
Lefferts  before  communication  was  destroyed,  was  twice  made  prisoner  by  the 
Marvlanders. 


78  HISTORY   OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

officer  of  the  Seventh  Regiment.  These  despatches  an 
nounced  the  safety  of  the  city  thus  far,  and  suggested  to 
Colonel  Lefferts  that  while  he  should  push  through  rapid 
ly,  yet  it  would  be  also  desirable  for  him  to  endeavor,  as 
he  marched,  to  reopen  railroad  communication  with  the 
North. 

All  entered  heartily  into  the  execution  of  this  plan. 
Two  companies  of  the  Eighth  Massachusetts  had  already 
occupied  the  depot,  and  had  begun  the  work  of  mending 
the  track.  The  story  of  their  exploits  is  immortal.  Find 
ing  an  old  locomotive,  damaged  and  useless,  in  a  locked-up 
storehouse,  they  set  to  work  to  repair  it.  Charles  Ho- 
mans,  of  Company  E,  found  the  engine  an  old  acquaintance, 
—  "  Our  shop  made  her,"  —  and  he  and  his  associates  soon 
had  it  in  running  order.  Before  nightfall  the  machine 
was  ready,  and  the  track,  for  about  three  miles,  repaired. 

To  divert,  meanwhile,  the  forebodings  of  delay  among  his 
own  men,  and  to  keep  them  well  in  hand,  Colonel  Lefferts, 
in  the  forenoon,  had  held  a  parade  and  drill,  with  a  review  by 
Captain  Blake.  Prominent  citizens  and  their  families  were 
admitted  to  the  ground,  and  carried  away  wondrous  stories 
of  the  prowess  of  the  Seventh.  On  the  other  hand,  the  cour 
tesy  and  liberality  of  the  men  told,  in  their  way.  The  petty 
traders  and  negro  boys  swarmed  around  the  school,  to  ex 
change  for  "  fips  "  fruits  and  cakes  which  had  cost  pennies. 
The  officers  paid  generously  for  such  scanty  provisions  as 
could  be  had.  So,  what  with  generosity  and  soldierly  bear 
ing,  the  Seventh,  before  it  left  Annapolis,  had  half  van 
quished  its  undecided  population.  Nevertheless,  there  were 
many  threats  of  violence,  ominous  gatherings  of  militia, 
and  reckless  adventurers  around  the  town,  and  menaces  of 
attacking  the  Academy. 

By  sunset,  Colonel  Lefferts's  preparations  were  made  for 
the  march.  He  therefore  wrote  and  forwarded  the  follow 
ing  to  Governor  Morgan  of  New  York  :  — 


THE   SEVENTH    AT    ANNAPOLIS.  79 

"  SIR,  —  Upon  the  arrival  of  my  command  at  Philadelphia,  I  found  it 
impracticable  to  reach  Washington  via  Baltimore,  and,  after  waiting 
eight  hours  for  answer  from  the  Secretary  of  War,  I  made  up  my  mind, 
from  all  the  information  I  could  gather,  that  Annapolis  would  of  neces 
sity  become  a  most  important  point  or  military  base.  I  immediately 
chartered  a  steamer  and  embarked  for  this  place,  and  was  the  first  to 
land,  and  feel  I  have  done  already  some  little  service  to  the  government. 

"  The  Massachusetts  troops,  or,  at  least,  a  portion  of  them,  passed  from  f 
Philadelphia  via  Havre  de  Grace.  To-morrow  morning  at  daylight  I 
leave  for  Washington  via  Annapolis  and  Baltimore  Railroad,  and  may 
have  to  march  forty  miles,  as  the  people  have  torn  the  rails,  bridges,  etc. 
We  sha.ll  also  have  fighting.  I  have  yesterday  and  to-day  had  couriers 
from  Washington,  and  I  am  directed  to  press  on. 

"  I  have  been  detained  twenty-four  hours  for  want  of  sufficient  funds 
to  provision  the  men  for  a  three  days'  march.  I  hear  to-day  of  fresh 
troops  to  arrive,  and,  in  my  judgment,  they  are  needed  here  to  replace 
us  as  soon  as  we  leave,  so  as  to  keep  the  communication  open." 

While  Colonel  Lefferts  was  sending  this  report  to  his  su 
perior  officer,  the  Governor  of  New  York,  General  Butler 
was  sending  a  report  on  his  part  to  his  superior  officer,  the 
Governor  of  Massachusetts.  The  word  which  General  But 
ler  sent  was  that  he  was  waiting  to  be  reinforced  from  the 
North  before  going  to  Washington  ;  and  the  proof  thereof 
is  contained  in  the  official  "  Abstract  of  the  Operations  of 
the  Massachusetts  Troops,  under  the  Command  of  Briga 
dier-General  Butler,"  published  from  the  Executive  Depart 
ment  of  that  State,  on  the  24th,  and  in  which  it  was  an 
nounced  that  "  General  Butler  and  his  forces  on  Tuesday 
evening  were  eagerly  awaiting  the  arrival  of  the  Fifth 
(Massachusetts)  Regiment,  with  its  accompanying  artillery, 
battery,  and  rifle  battalion,  upon  the  arrival  of  which,  to 
g-ether  with  the  New  York  regiments  which  departed  for 
Annapolis  on  Sunday  and  Monday,  they  would  be  fully  able 
to  open  and  maintain  communication  between  Annapolis 
and  Washington."  In  New  York,  the  following  day  the 
same  news  was  announced  by  the  editor  of  the  Times, 
on  authority  of  a  special  messenger  just  from  Annapolis, 


80  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

who  declared  that  as  it  was  "  believed  that  the  Rebels 
were  collected  in  the  vicinity  of  the  road,  to  the  number 
of  12,000  or  15,000,  General  Butler  did  not  deem  it  pru 
dent  to  move  forward  until  he  had  been  reinforced." 

These  facts  are  here  mentioned,  because  they  show  that 
General  Butler  was  again  waiting  for  reinforcements  here 
as  at  Philadelphia ;  and  as  he  has  taken  occasion  to  of 
fensively  charge  the  Seventh  Regiment  with  doing  this,  and 
to  imply  that  he  did  not  so  wait,  it  is  necessary  to  put  the 
official  fact  on  the  record.  The  messages  sent  to  the  re 
spective  governors  tell  the  whole  story.  Colonel  Lefferts 
deemed  reinforcements  a  necessity,  and  had  written  to  have 
them  pushed  forward  ;  but  it  clearly  appears  that  he  had 
ordered  his  march  without  reference  to  their  previous  ar 
rival.  Their  approach  at  midnight,  after  the  march  had 
be  en  arranged  the  previous  evening  for  daylight,  was  sim 
ply  a  happy  circumstance. 

For,  in  fact,  at  sunset,  the  arrangements  for  the  march 
were  substantially  made.  The  provisions  of  pork  and 
crackers  had  been  bought,  and  during  the  night  these  were 
packed.  Orders  were  issued  for  the  Second  Company 
(Captain  Clark),  the  Sixth  (Captain  Nevers),  and  a  de 
tachment  of  the  Tenth,  under  Lieutenant  Bunting,  to  start 
at  four  o'clock,  A.  M.,  along  the  railroad  towards  Annapolis 
Junction.  A  messenger  (Mortimer  Thompson)  crossed  the 
bay  in  an  open  boat  to  carry  to  New  York  tidings  of  the 
proposed  march,  with  directions  to  forward  supplies  to 
Washington. 

The  Seventh  Regiment's  march  from  Annapolis  to  Wash 
ington  presents  now,  with  the  mighty  events  of  a  four 
years'  war  intervening,  a  very  different  appearance  from 
that  of  April,  1861.  Maryland  was  then  mainly  in  hostile 
possession.  Lander,  —  a  dashing  officer,  whose  heroic  life 
was  soon  afterwards  thrown  away  in  an  heroic  exploit,  — 


THE  SEVENTH  AT  ANNAPOLIS.  81 

on  reaching  the'  Naval  Academy,  on  the  23d,  and  consult 
ing  with  the  officers  of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  said,  accordr 
ing  to  Colonel  Clark,  who,  as  Captain,  was  present  at  the 
interview,  that,  "  in  his  opinion,  derived  from  personal 
observation,  the  regiment  would  meet  with  serious  resist 
ance  upon  the  road  to  Washington,  and  could  not  expect 
to  reach  that  point  without  a  loss  of  200  or  300  men.  The 
party  by  whom  he  had  been  arrested  numbered  400  men, 
and  all  the  roads  were  infested  with  troopers  and  bush 
whackers.  Yet  so  perilous  was  the  situation  of  affairs  at 
Washington,  that  he  advised  a  forward  movement  at  any 
cost ;  and  as  it  was  impossible  to  make  suitable  provision 
for  the  conveyance  of  sick  or  wounded  men,  that  they  be 
left  upon  the  road,  to  the  mercy  and  humanity  of  the  Mary- 
landers." 

Captain  Blake  and  Lieutenant  Matthews  were  equally 
impressed  with  the  hostile  sentiment  of  Eastern  Maryland, 
and  expressed  their  opinion  that  the  Seventh  Regiment's 
inarch  to  Washington  would  be  sharply  contested.  "  Five 
minutes  after  we  had  landed,"  says  Chaplain  Weston,  "the 
officer  in  command  of  the  Naval  School  informed  me  that, 
if  we  made  a  forced  march,  we  might  possibly  carry  two 

thirds  of  our  number  through All  declared  we 

would  meet  with  a  warm  reception."  Governor  Hicks  and 
Quartermaster  Miller  held  the  same  opinion.  They  in 
formed  General  Butler  and  Colonel  Lefferts  of  the  set  pur 
pose  of  the  Marylanders  to  resist  the  passage  of  troops  over 
their  soil.  "  Large  parties  of  secessionists,"  the  officers  of 
the  Constitution  declared,  had  been  round  that  ship  every 
day,  "  noting  her  assailable  points.  The  militia  of  the 
county  were  drilled  in  sight  of  the  ship  during  the  day 
time  ;  during  the  night,  signals  were  exchanged  along  the 
banks  and  across  the  river."  Bodies  of  infantry  and  cavalry 
were  observed  by  scouts  around  the  town,  and  the  militia 
paraded  in  Annapolis. 


82  HISTORY   OF  THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

General  Butler  was  also  much  impressed  by  the  gravity 
of  the  situation.  At  Philadelphia  he  bought  intrenching 
tools,  on  the  theory  that  "  all  Maryland  was  supposed  to  be 
in  arms  "  ;  and  in  that  city,  when  he  assembled  his  officers 
for  consultation  on  his  proposition  to  go  forward,  he  de 
clared  that,  "  as  some  might  consider  it  rash  and  reckless, 
he  was  resolved  to  take  the  sole  responsibility  himself.'' 
He  therefore  caused  thirteen  revolvers  to  be  put  on  his 
table  at  the  Girard  House,  and,  says  his  biographer,  "  tak 
ing  up  one  of  the  revolvers,  he  invited  every  officer  who 
was  willing  to  accompany  him  to  signify  it  by  accepting  a 
pistol.  The  pistols  were  all  instantly  appropriated."  In 
the  same  conviction,  he  marched  upon  Havre  de  Grace  with 
skirmishers  deployed  so  as  to  "  rush  upon  the  barricades, 
and  carry  them  at  the  point  of  the  bayonet."  Arrived  at 
Annapolis  at  midnight,  he  found  the  whole  town,  says  his 
biographer,  "  awake  and  astir.  Rockets  shot  up  into  the 
sky.  Swiftly  moving  lights  were  seen  on  shore,  and  all 
the  houses  in  sight  were  lighted  up.  Noting  these  signs 
of  disturbance,  he  cast  anchor,  and  determined  to  delay  his 
landing  till  daylight."  He  found  the  frigate  Constitution 
"  surrounded  by  a  population  stolidly  hostile  to  the  United 
States,"  with  the  local  militia  drilling  in  sight  of  her,  and 
throwing  up  signals  such  as  he  had  seen  on  arriving.  He 
rescued  the  Constitution,  while  "  groups  of  sulky  secesh 
stood  scowling  around  and  muttering  execrations,"  and  in 
his  official  order  on  that  subject,  he  declared  the  frigate  to 
have  been  "  substantially  at  the  mercy  of  the  armed  mob, 
which  sometimes  paralyzes  the  otherwise  loyal  State  of 
Maryland."  Accordingly,  General  Butler  sent  word,  as 
we  have  seen,  that  he  was  awaiting  reinforcements  before 
proceeding  to  Washington  ;  and  meanwhile,  with  a  view  to 
conciliating  a  popular  sentiment  which  he  found  so  threaten 
ing,  on  this  same  Tuesday,  the  23d,  he  offered  the  Massa 
chusetts  men  to  the  task  of  protecting  the  slave  property  of 


THE   SEVENTH   AT    ANNAPOLIS.  83 

the  neighborhood  of  Annapolis,  and,  addressing  Governor 
Hicks  by  letter,  begged  him  "to  announce  publicly  that 
any  portion  of  the  forces  under  my  command  is  at  your 
Excellency's  disposal "  to  quell  a  negro  insurrection  which 
he  imagined  to  be  impending.  Such  was  General  Butler's 
view  of  the  situation.* 

While  preparing  for  his  march,  on  Tuesday,  Colonel 
Lefferts,  that  he  might  have  the  regiment  instantly  ready 
for  any  service,  allowed  no  straggling  into  the  city,  and 
required  the  camp  guard-duty  to  be  performed  with  the 
utmost  care  and  precision.  The  regiment  took  pride,  in 
turn,  in  showing  themselves  true  soldiers,  who  understood 
discipline  and  were  prompt  at  duty ;  and  when,  late  on 
Tuesday  night,  rockets  from  the  Constitution  were  thrown 

*  Mr.  Parton.  in  his  biography  of  General  Butler,  from  which  the  preceding  facts 
and  citations  are  collected,  meets  at  this  point  a  difficulty.  As  the  New  York 
Seventh  and  the  Eighth  Massachusetts  were  at  Annapolis  together,  the  glory  of 
the  ''march  thi'ough  Maryland"  is  one  which  they  must  share  in  common.  This, 
however,  is  not,  apparently,  what  General  Butler's  biographer  desires.  His  purpose 
seems  to  be  to  get  all  the  laurels  for  his  own  hero.  Hence  he  paints  the  difficulties 
and  dangers  which  surrounded  General  Butler  in  the  highest  colors;  but  the  same 
difficulties  and  dangers,  when  speaking  of  the  Seventh,  he  draws  in  caricature. 
But,  in  the  latter  case,  he  obviously  renders  Butler's  revolver  scene,  strategic 
advance  on  Havre  de  Grace,  and  historic  "  capture  of  the  Constitution,"  by  which 
latter,  as  Butler's  thrasonical  order  said,  "  the  blood  of  our  friends  shed  by  the 
Baltimore  mob  is  in  so  far  avenged,"  all  a  travesty  and  farce.  The  truth  is  that 
Butler's  actual  view  of  the  situation  is  that  ah-eady  given  in  the  text,  —  the  one 
taken  not  only  by  the  Mayor  and  citizens  of  Annapolis,  who  talked  with  him  and 
with  Colonel  Lefferts,  but  also  by  officers  of  such  experience  and  attested  courage 
as  Colonels  Lander  and  Curtis,  and  Captain  Blake  and  his  lieutenants.  General 
Butler  was  at  that  time  an  obscure  militia  officer,  whose  martial  exploits  were  in 
their  infancy,  and  whose  professional  military  judgment  was  not  valuable.  That 
he  was  annoyed  at  the  slight  attention  which  the  officers  of  the  Seventh  Regiment 
gave  to  his  suggestions  is  natural,  but  there  was  no  reason  then  for  their  doing 
otherwise.  His  course  hitherto  had  been  extravagant,  his  notions  of  military 
authority  were  crude,  he  refused  to  understand  why  a  march  could  not  be  under 
taken -without  food,  and  told  Captain  Blake,  "  I  have  got  no  orders,  I  am  making 
war  on  my  own  hook,"  which  indeed  seemed  to  be  the  case.  Of  course  the 
Seventh  Regiment  could  hardly  pay  much  attention  to  that  sort  of  thing,  and,  in 
fact,  declined  to  be  led  by  him  at  all,  whereby  he  sagely  concluded  that  they  had 
•'resolved  to  remain  at  Annapolis!  "  But  I  am  trenching  now  upon  a  dispute 
which  is  treated  of  in  the  following  chapter. 


84  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

up  (the  preconcerted  signal  for  the  approach  of  an  un 
known  force),  and  the  "long  roll"  beat  at  the  Academy 
grounds,  in  seven  minutes,  by  the  watch,  from  the  first 
drum-tap,  the  whole  regiment,  sick  and  well,  was  in  line, 
all  armed  and  equipped,  and  with  the  howitzers  manned. 
The  midshipmen  had  started  from  their  sleep  with  equal 
celerity,  and,  forming  a  hundred  strong,  had  hurried  down 
the  slope  with  their  howitzers. 

But  it  was  a  friend  that  approached, — the  Baltic,  loaded 
with  the  troops  that  left  New  York  after  the  Seventh.  The 
Baltic's  lights  had  been  discovered,  for  she  and  her  con 
sorts  were  expected ;  but  they  had  instantly  been  shut  out 
of  sight  by  a  thick  haze.  It  was  this  disappearance  which 
caused  the  suspicion  of  foul  play.  When  the  fog  lifted, 
the  moon  glittered  on  rows  of  motionless  bayonets  upon  the 
shore.  The  glass  now  told  the  character  of  the  coming 
vessel,  and  ranks  were  broken,  and  blankets  sought  again, 
save  by  the  detail  who  prepared  the  rations  for  the  morn 
ing's  march.  The  midshipmen  separated,  too,  heartily  eulo 
gizing  the  celerity  and  discipline  of  the  National  Guard. 


A   DISPUTED   COMMAND. 


85 


CHAPTER   VI. 

A     DISPUTED    COMMAND. 

ROM  the  moment  General 
Butler  set  eye  on  the  Sev 
enth  Regiment,  he  seemed 
possessed  with  the  desire 
to  command  it, —  a  desire 
which  was  not  reciprocated. 
The  wish  being  father  to 
the  thought,  that  officer  at 
length,  by  persistent  fancy 
ing,  appears  to  have  fallen 
into  the  delusion  that  he 
actually  did  command  the 
regiment.  On  no  other 
ground,  at  any  rate,  can 
we  account  for  his  conduct 
at  Annapolis.  It  has  been 
seen  how  at  Philadelphia 
he  was  anxious  to  order 
the  regiment  to  Havre  de 

Grace,  and  how  he  was  amazed  that  the  regiment  did  not 
go  thither.  But,  having  reached  Annapolis,  where  he 
awaited  the  Seventh,  he  was  seized  by  the  same  frenzy, 
and  exhibited  it  in  orders  addressed  to  Colonel  Lefferts, 
based  on  the  wild  supposition  that  the  New  York  National 
Guard  was  a  part  of  the  "Third  Brigade,  Second  Division, 
Massachusetts  Volunteer  Militia,"  over  which  he  professed 
to  have  command.  This  conclusion,  however,  he  reached 


86  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

only  by  degrees ;  for  an  early  communication  to  the  Seventh 
Regiment,  on  its  arrival  off  the  mouth  of  the  Severn,  po 
litely  ran,  in  the  form  of  a  request,  as  follows  :  — 

STEAMER  MAYFLOWER,*  April  22,  1861. 

Will  Colonel  Lefferts,  Honorable  Mr.  Curtis,  and  Captain  Hamilton 
do  me  the  favor  to  accompany  me  and  my  detachment  in  our  landing  at 
Annapolis,  and  give  me  the  benefit  of  their  advice  and  assistance. 
Most  respectfully, 

Your  friend  and  servant, 

B.  F.  BUTLER,  Brigadier-General. 

Thus  we  perceive  that  while  the  Mayflower  was  firmly 
taking  root,  as  if  contemplating  being  transplanted,  General 
Butler  felt  hardly  equal  to  adopting  the  tone  of  authority 
which  doubtless  he  felt  to  be  his  due  as  commander  of  "  the 
brigade."  However,  during  the  day,  Colonel  Lefferts  was 
favored  with  an  official  copy  (from  the  same  brigade  head 
quarters)  of  "  Special  Brigade  Orders,  Nos.  36  and  37,"  — 
for  to  such  figures  had  the  special  orders  already  ascended 
without  Colonel  Lefferts's  knowledge.  The  latter  order, 
"No.  37,"  on  opening,  he  found  to  consist  of  four  full  pages, 
dated  April  22,  1861,  prescribing  company  drills  (from  five 
to  seven,  A.  M.)  upon  General  Butler's  command  ;  also  de 
scribing  the  danger  of  improperly  stacking  loaded  arms,  and 
narrating  that  one  accident  had  already  occurred  from  this 
cause  ;  also  asserting  that  "  deeds  of  daring,  successful  con 
tests,  and  glorious  victories  had  rendered  Old  Ironsides  "  a 
"  fitly  chosen  school-ship,"  and  that  for  the  Eighth  Massa 
chusetts  to  have  saved  her  from  capture  was  "  a  sufficient 
triumph  of  right,  and  a  sufficient  triumph  for  us.  By  this 
the  blood  of  our  friends  shed  by  the  Baltimore  mob  is  in  so 
far  avenged.  The  Eighth  Regiment  may  hereafter  cheer 
lustily  on  all  proper  occasions,  but  never  without  orders" 

*  "Mayflower"  doubtless  means  "Maryland";  the  biographer  of  General 
Butler,  however,  employs  the  latter  name,  in  place  of  the  one  wherewith  the 
General's  patriotism  had  christened  the  craft. 


A   DISPUTED    COMMAND.  87 

The  order  proceeded  to  announce  also  that  "  we  have  been 
joined  by  the  Seventh  Regiment  of  New  York,"  that  there 
must  be  no  "  unauthorized  interference  with  private  prop 
erty  "  in  the  State,  and  so  forth.  At  length  Colonel  Lef- 
ferts  came,  just  at  the  end,  to  the  paragraph  clearing  up 
the  mystery  :  — 

Colonel  Lefferts's  command  not  having  been  originally  included  in 
this  order,  he  will  be  furnished  with  a  copy  for  his  instruction. 
By  order  of 

B.  F.  BUTLER,  Brigadier-General. 
WM.  H.  CLEMENCE,  Brigade-Major. 

Although  Colonel  Lefferts  felt  "  instructed  "  on  a  variety 
of  points  by  this  comprehensive  special  order,  yet  the  dis 
tinction  therein  drawn  between  the  "  we  "  and  the  "  Seventh 
Regiment "  prevented  him,  perhaps,  from  conning  it  so 
carefully  as  he  might  otherwise  have  done.  However,  if  the 
Seventh  did  not  perform  the  precise  drills  therein  ordered, 
(for  it  did  not  contemplate  a  sufficiently  long  stay  at  Annapo 
lis  for  "  daily  company  drills  "),  at  least  its  members  wit 
nessed  with  pleasure  those  of  their  comrades  of  the  Eighth  ; 
as  to  the  prohibited  "  outrages  on  private  property,"  on 
which  the  General  was  characteristically  sensitive,  they  did 
refrain  from  them,  as  the  citizens  of  Annapolis  could  testify. 

The  next  "  brigade  order,"  whereof  the  original  lies  be 
fore  us,  is  unique  in  having  no  date,  —  a  matter,  however, 
of  less  importance,  as  no  attention  was  paid  to  it.  It  runs 
as  follows  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  BRIGADE  UNITED  MILITIA,  1861. 

SPECIAL  BRIGADE  ORDER,  No.  38. 

Colonel  Lefferts's  command  will  report  themselves  ready  for  such  duty 
as  shall  be  assigned  them  at  half  past  eight  o'clock  this  morning. 
By  command  of 

B.  F.  BUTLER,  Brigadier-General. 
W.  H.  CLEMENCE,  Brigade- Major. 

While  No.  38  had  thus  the  merit  of  brevity  over  its 


88  HISTORY   OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

predecessor,  No.  37,  yet  its  uncertainty  in  point  of  time, 
and  the  lack  of  historic  data  to  determine  how  the  Seventh 
Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  M.  and  the  Eighth  Regiment  M.  Y.  M. 
became  welded  into  a  "  Brigade  United  Militia,"  befog 
alike  the  chronicler  and  the  reader. 

A  hiatus  of  six  special  brigade  orders  now  occurs  in 
the  records  of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  nor  can  any  memory 
or  fancy  of  its  officers  fill  the  gap.  On  the  next  morning 
the  special  brigade  orders  had  reached  in  number  forty-five, 
and  the  United  Militia  had  become  the  United  States  Mili 
tia,  as  the  following  copy  shows  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  BRIGADE  U.  S.  MILITIA, 
ANNAPOLIS,  MD.,  April  23,  18<51. 

SPECIAL  BRIGADE  ORDER,  No.  45. 

The  General  commanding  the  3d  Brigade  orders  that  710  officer  or 
private  belonging  to  Ms  command  suffer  himself  to  leave  the  grounds  be 
longing  to  the  United  States  government,  without  a  special  requisition 
from  him.  Colonel  Munroe  of  the  Eighth  and  Lefferts  of  the  Seventh 
Regiments  will  see  that  the  execution  of  this  order  is  strictly  complied 
with  in  their  respective  commands. 

By  order  of 

B.  F.  BUTLER, 

Brigadier- General  of  3d  Brigade. 
W.  H.  CLEMENCE,  Brigade-Major. 

But  here  we  must  break  off  in  our  documentary  record, 
enough  having  been  cited,  doubtless,  to  show  that  there  was 
a  "  disputed  command  "  respecting  the  Seventh  Regiment. 
Already  had  that  body  unconsciously  been  converted  from 
New  York  State  Militia  to  "  United  Militia"  and  "  United 
States  Militia,"  and  from  the  "  First  Division  "  of  New 
York,  under  General  Sandford,  to  the  "  Second  Division, 
Third  Brigade,"  of  Massachusetts,  under  General  Butler. 
What  other  transformations  the  many  special  orders  from 
1  to  36,  and  from  39  to  45,  might  reveal,  the  members  of 
the  Seventh  will  never  know ;  most  of  them  learn  now  for 
the  first  time  in  what  varying  capacities  they  served  at 
Annapolis. 


A   DISPUTED    COMMAND.  89 

It  should  here  be  added  that,  on  the  evening  of  the  22d 
of  April,  when  the  Seventh  Regiment  had  landed  at  An 
napolis,  and  stacked  arms  on  the  Academy  Green,  General 
Butler  came  upon  the  ground,  and,  after  exchanging  a  few 
words  with  Colonel  Lefferts,  commenced  a  speech  to  the 
officers  of  the  Seventh,  who  were  grouped  together  discuss 
ing  a  variety  of  topics.  Colonel  Lefferts,  meanwhile,  was 
listening  as  patiently  as  possible  to  the  thousand  reports, 
requests,  and  suggestions  made  to  him  on  landing,  and  was 
issuing  orders  for  the  disposition  of  the  regiment  for  the 
night  and  for  unloading  the  Boston  for  the  use  of  the  Eighth 
Massachusetts,  who  were  suffering  great  hardships  on  board 
the  Maryland,  still  aground  in  the  harbor.  Thus  engaged, 
Colonel  Lefferts  had  no  time  to  hear  General  Butler's  re 
marks,  nor  did  he  know  their  object,  until,  when  his  imme 
diate  duties  had  been  finished,  he  learned  through  his 
officers,  whom  he  assembled  for  consultation,  that  Butler's 
aim  had  evidently  been  to  try  to  get  such  ascendency  over 
the  regiment  as  to  bring  them  under  his  own  control,  —  the 
thing  he  had  been  aiming  at  ever  since  leaving  Philadelphia. 
On  hearing  this,  Colonel  Lefferts  stated  to  his  officers  that 
he  had  received  from  General  Butler  the  extraordinary 
"  orders  "  already  quoted,  but  had  given  them  no  attention 
whatever,  on  account  of  the  intrinsic  absurdity  of  an  officer 
in  the  militia  of  one  State  claiming  authority  over  the  mili 
tia  of  another,  neither  being  yet  in  the  United  States  ser 
vice.  He  added  that  as  this  theory  seemed  to  be  now 
revived  by  General  Butler,  it  was  necessary  to  formally 
refuse  to  place  the  regiment  at  his  disposal,  the  more  espe 
cially  as  his  pretensions  had  not  yet  been  substantiated  by 
any  show  of  etiquette,  discretion,  or  military  knowledge. 

This  view  the  officers  unanimously  supported  ;  and  it 
was  also  agreed  to  by  common  consent  that,  unless  official 
assurance  should  previously  be  received  of  the  safety  of 
"Washington  (regarding  which  nothing  whatever  was 


90  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

known),  Butler's  proposition  to  march  by  railroad,  laying 
the  track,  was  not  to  be  thought  of ;  that,  on  the  contrary, 
the  turnpike  must  be  taken,  in  order  to  reach  Washington 
at  the  earliest  practicable  hour.  These  ideas  —  namely, 
that  the  regiment  could  not,  under  General  Butler's  assump 
tions,  co-operate  with  him  in  a  plan  which  they  did  not  ap 
prove —  the  officers  unanimously  desired  Colonel  Lefferts 
to  embody  in  a  letter  to  General  Butler,  as  being  their  own 
views.  This  he  did  ;  and  the  following  letter,  hastily  writ 
ten  and  despatched,  though  more  courteous  and  concilia 
tory  in  tone  than  the  facts  demanded,  yet  had  the  de 
sired  effect,  namely,  to  disabuse  General  Butler  of  any 
ungrounded  expectations  he  may  have  entertained  as  to 
the  effect  of  his  recent  eloquence  on  any  of  the  officers  of 
the  Seventh  Regiment. 

ANNAPOLIS  ACADEMY,  Monday  night,  April  22. 

GENERAL  B.  F.  BUTLER,  Commanding  Mass.  Volunteers. 

SIR,  —  Upon  consultation  with  my  officers,  I  do  not  deem  it  proper, 
under  the  circumstances,  to  co-operate  in  the  proposed  march  by  rail 
road,  making  track  as  we  go  along,  particularly  in  view  of  a  large  force 
hourly  expected,  and  with  so  little  ammunition  *  as  we  possess.  I  must 
be  governed  by  my  officers  in  a  matter  of  so  much  importance.  I  have 
directed  this  to  be  handed  to  you  immediately  upon  your  return  from 
the  transport  ship. 

I  am,  sir,  yours  respectfully, 

M.  LEFFERTS,  Colonel. 

From  this  polite  but  expressive  note,  General  Butler 
learned,  first,  that  he  was  treated,  despite  his  pretensions, 
as  simply  "  commanding  the  Massachusetts  volunteers  "  ; 
secondly,  that  the  Seventh  Regiment  would  not  co-operate 
in  any  plan  involving1  its  being1  put  under  his  command ; 
thirdly,  that  these  conclusions  were  not  those  simply  of 
Colonel  Lefferts,  who  was  naturally  jealous  of  outside  in 
fluence  of  the  sort  Butler  aimed  at,  but  those  of  his 

*  Ten  rounds  per  man. 


A   DISPUTED   COMMAND.  91 

officers,  by  whose  opinion  in  the  matter,  after  consultation, 
the  Colonel  was  governed. 

And  indeed,  when,  the  next  day,  the  regiment,  after 
having  been  unexpectedly  delayed  in  its  contemplated 
march  on  the  dirt-road  direct  to  Washington  (as  official 
and  unofficial  documents  and  letters  have  already  ex 
plained),  learned  that  the  capital  was  still  in  our  hands, 
so  that  then  the  railroad  route  had  become  the  more  ad 
vantageous,  it  took  the  latter  without  any  consultation  with 
Butler  and  entirely  independent  of  him.  The  dispositions 
were  made  and  orders  for  the  march  issued,  so  far  as  is 
known  by  the  regiment,  without  Butler's  being  aware  of 
them ;  the  main  body  of  his  troops  were  left  in  the  town 
when  the  Seventh  had  entirely  quitted  it ;  nor,  but  for  a 
long  halt  in  repairing  a  bridge,  many  hours  later,  would 
Colonel  Lefferts  have  been  made  aware  that  Butler's  force 
had  followed  on. 

The  Seventh  Regiment  has  never  sought  to  detract  one 
iota  from  the  glory  of  their  gallant  brethren  of  the  Eighth, 
their  comrades  in  this  famous  campaign  ;  nor,  on  the 
other  hand,  have  the  Eighth  ever  claimed  *for  themselves 
that  exclusiveness  of  credit  which  General  Butler  has 
claimed  for  them  —  and  him. 

One  other  incident  relating  to  this  same  period  may  here 
be  appropriately  introduced.  As  Butler,  after  his  speech 
on  Monday  evening,  was  about  to  return  to  the  transport, 
he  suggested  to  Colonel  Lefferts  to  seize  and  occupy  the 
railroad  depot.  On  conferring  with  Captain  Blake  on  this 
matter,  the  latter- sent  up  two  or  three  of  his  young  men, 
who  found  everything  quiet  at  the  depot,  under  charge  of 
the  watchman ;  so  that  it  appeared  wholly  unnecessary  to 
make  any  other  occupation.  Next  morning  Butler,  who, 
finding  that  his  suggestion  had  not  been  followed,  had 
meanwhile  moved  upon  the  depot  in  grand  force,  fumed 
and  blustered  a  good  deal  on  meeting  Colonel  Leiferts. 


92  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

"  I  thought,"  said  he,  "  you  told  me  you  would  take  the 
depot :  when  my  people  got  there,  they  found  nothing  but 
one  man  and  a  black-and-tan  dog."  As  Colonel  Lefferts 
was  aware  of  this  fact,  he  contented  himself  with  saying 
that  for  that  very  reason  he  "  had  not  seen  the  necessity  of 
using  a  whole  regiment  for  its  capture." 

The  rebuff,  and  the  pithy  note  sent  him  by  Colonel  Lef 
ferts  the  night  before,  opened  his  eyes  to  the  true  character 
of  his  relations  with  the  Seventh.  It  showed  him  that  the 
two  regiments  in  Annapolis  were  independent  commands, 
and  that  while  the  Seventh  would  gladly  co-operate  with  its 
comrade  where  its  judgment  approved,  it  could  not  be 
ordered  about  by  pretended  authority.  The  ground  as 
sumed  by  General  Butler,  that  he  had  the  right  to  command 
Colonel  Lefferts,  the  latter  would  not  admit.  He  had  been 
ordered  by  the  Governor  of  New  York  to  report  to  General 
Scott  at  Washington,  not  to  General  Butler  by  the  way. 
He  had  neither  the  right  nor  the  disposition  to  put  his  own 
State  militia  under  the  command  of  a  militia  officer  from 
another  State.  The  fiction  of  "United  States  Militia" 
created  by  General  Butler  in  this  dilemma  was  ridiculous, 
nor  had  that  officer  even  the  shadow  of  authority  from 
the  War  Office  to  extemporize  such  a  fiction,  being  himself 
under  command  of  Governor  Andrew  of  Massachusetts. 
As  to  General  Butler's  military  qualifications,  nothing 
whatever  was  at  that  time  known  of  them,  nor  was  it 
clear  that  his  experience  was  greater  than  that  of  the  com 
manding  officer  of  the  historic  National  Guards ;  while, 
in  fact,  the  lapse  of  a  few  weeks  showed  that  General  But 
ler,  apt  as  he  might  be  for  the  profession  of  arms,  had  con 
siderable  yet  to  learn. 

The  upshot  of  this  quarrel  greatly  chagrined  General 
Butler,  and  colored  his  after-memory  of  the  facts  re 
lating  to  the  whole  expedition.  However,  it  settled  his 
pretensions  to  control  the  Seventh  Regiment ;  he  promptly 


A  DISPUTED   COMMAND.  93 

accepted  the  situation,  and  there  was  never  after  any  ques 
tion  of  "  disputed  command."  * 

So  much  for  this  interesting  episode:  and  now  —  to  re 
sume  the  thread  of  our  narrative,  broken  at  that  point 
where,  messengers  to  the  Seventh  from  Washington  having 
brought  tidings  from  Washington,  it  had  become  as  desira 
ble  to  proceed  by  railroad,  repairing  on  the  way,  as  before 
it  had  been  needful  to  advance  without  delay  along  the 
turnpike. 

*  Captain  Clark's  History  says :  "  The  selfish  ambition  of  General  Butler  was 
deeply  outraged  at  this  reply,  and  his  indignation  and  anger  at  the  refusal  of  the 
Seventh  Regiment  to  obey  his  orders  knew  no  bounds.  He  threatened  arrests  and 
court-martials,  and  to  report  the  case  to  the  War  Department,  and  he  made  him 
self  generally  ridiculous;  and  at  that  time  and  since,  by  misrepresentations  of  the 
facts,  and  ungenerous  inferences  and  reflections,  he  has  spared  no  effort  to  injure 
the  reputation  of  Colonel  Lefierts,  and  indirectly  stigmatize  the  Seventh  Regi 
ment." 


HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 


CHAPTER   VII. 

THE   MARCH   TO   WASHINGTON. 

T  three  o'clock,  A.  M.,  of 
Wednesday,  the  24th  of 
April,  the  Second  Com 
pany  (Captain  Clark)  and 
Sixth  Company  (Captain 
Never s)  were  astir  for  the 
march,  and  with  them  the 
detachment  of  the  Tenth 
under  Lieutenant  Bunting. 
Details  had  been  occupied 
from  twelve  o'clock  till 
three  in  getting  ready  ra 
tions  and  ammunition.  At 
four  o'clock  the  whole  de 
tachment  reported,  under 
command  of  Captain  Nev- 
ers  as  senior  officer,  and 
soon  after  were  off  on  the 
road  to  Annapolis  Junction. 

It  will-  be  obvious,  without  further  comment,  what  had 
been  achieved,  and  what  was  now  proposed  for  accomplish 
ment.  The  purposes  of  the  enemy  were  still  unknown. 
A  despatch  from  private  sources,  in  the  Philadelphia  papers 
of  the  preceding  day,  said :  "  The  troops  intended  to  march 
immediately  for  Annapolis  Junction.  The  citizens  of  the 
town  and  neighborhood  were  prepared  to  give  them  a  guer 
rilla  fight  in  their  march."  Captain  Blake,  anxious  to 


THE   MARCH   TO   WASHINGTON.  95 

pioneer  the  Seventh's  way  through  Annapolis,  sent  a  letter 
for  that  purpose  to  Colonel  Lefferts  :  — 

COLONEL,  —  I  feel  so  sure  that  if  the  service  suggested  is  performed 
by  one  of  our  youths  it  would  lead  to  disastrous  consequences,  that  I 
am  extremely  reluctant  to  order  one  of  them  upon  it.  I  sketch  another 
route  which  is  perfectly  direct  and  as  little  exposed  as  any  one  you 

can  take. 

Very  respectfully, 

G.  S.  BLAKE. 

P.  S.  —  You  can  leave  the  Academy  grounds  by  another  gate.  The 
upper  one  would  perhaps  be  best.  I  direct  the  officer  in  charge  to  re 
port  to  you,  to  show  you  out  of  the  grounds  and  point  out  the  route  to 
the  depot. 

On  the  reverse  page  of  the  original  letter  we  find  the 
"  route  "  alluded  to  sketched  with  precision.  But  no  op 
position  was  encountered  at  the  start.  Captain  Nevers's 
advance-guard,  with  the  Second  Company  leading,  passed 
through  the  city  just  before  daylight,  and  up  the  hill  to  the 
depot,  where  the  Eighth  Massachusetts  greeted  them  heart 
ily.  Their  Yankee  ingenuity  had,  the  day  before,  repaired 
the  dislocated  engine  "  J.  H.  Nicholson  "  (which  ought  on 
the  spot  to  have  been  rebaptized  the  "  Charles  Hoinans  "), 
and  had  got  the  torn-up  tracks  relaid  for  three  miles,  under 
a  guard  of  two  companies.  The  train  now  moved  forward. 

It  was  a  novel  column  in  the  Seventh's  experience.  First 
came  two  open  platform-cars,  formed  by  sawing  off  the  tops 
of  two  old  cattle-cars.  On  the  first  was  the  howitzer, 
loaded  with  grape,  with  eight  of  Lieutenant's  Bunting's 
men  on  each  side  as  guard.  That  officer  was  at  the  for 
ward  end,  acting  as  conductor  to  the  train,  and  giving  the 
engineer  (a  Massachusetts  lad)  his  signals ;  beside  him 
stood  a  man  detailed  to  watch  for  breaks  in  the  road.  On 
the  second  open  car  were  the  ammunition  for  the  howitzer, 
and  a  guard  of  six  picked  riflemen,  three  on  each  side. 
Then  came  the  wheezy  locomotive.  After  that,  two  small 
cars,  the  first  containing  the  Second  and  the  other  the 


96  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Sixth  Company.  This  was  all  that  could  be  mustered  of 
the  "  rolling-stock,"  the  railroad  company  having  gathered 
up  all  their  good  cars  and  engines  and  sent  them  back  to 
Baltimore. 

Off  the  train  started,  amid  the  applause  of  the  Massa 
chusetts  Eighth,  and  the  "passengers"  all  in  good  spirits, 
though  in  rather  close  quarters  for  comfort.  The  train  ran 
slowly  along  on  the  track  laid  down  the  day  before  by  the 
Massachusetts  men,  and,  two  miles  out,  found  the  picket- 
guard  of  the  Eighth  Massachusetts,  consisting  of  two  com 
panies,  about  one  hundred  and  fifty  strong,  under  Lieuten 
ant-Colonel  Hinks.  The  poor  fellows  were  in  deplorable 
straits,  having  had  nothing  to  eat  for  twenty-four  hours, 
and  bitter  were  their  complaints  against  General  Butler's 
repeated  experiments  in  campaigning  without  supplies. 
Off  came  the  knapsacks  and  haversacks  of  the  Seventh, 
out  came  their  rations ;  each  man  found  a  half-starved  com 
rade  with  whom  to  share  his  beef  and  bread ;  and  thus, 
from  the  dole  of  provisions  packed  at  Annapolis  for  the 
exigencies  of  march  and  battle,  the  Seventh  supplied  their 
less  fortunate  brother-soldiers  with  a  hearty  meal.  The 
latter  could  hardly  express  their  gratitude.  Fitz  James 
O'Brien,  who  marched  with  the  body  of  the  regiment, 
writes :  "  These  brave  boys,  I  say,  were  starving  while 
they  were  doing  all  this  good  work.  What  their  Colonel 
was  doing  I  can't  say.  As  we  marched  along  the  track 
that  they  had  laid,  they  greeted  us  with  ranks  of  smiling 
but  hungry  faces.  One  boy  told  me,  with  a  laugh  on  his 
young  lips,  that  he  had  not  ate  anything  for  thirty  hours. 
There  was  not,  thank  God,  a  haversack  in  our  regiment 
that  was  not  emptied  into  the  hands  of  these  ill-treated 
heroes,  nor  a  flask  that  was  not  at  their  disposal.  I  am 
glad  to  pay  them  tribute  here,  and  mentally  doff  my  cap." 
The  previous  conduct  of  the  Seventh  in  delaying,  hour  after 
hour,  to  haul  off  the  stranded  Maryland,  and  their  haste  to 


THE   MARCH   TO   WASHINGTON.  97 

share  provisions  with  the  famished  Eighth  on  their  landing 
at  Annapolis,  were  capped  by  this  last  instance  of  soldierly 
hospitality,  and  thenceforth  the  men  of  the  two  regiments 
were  enthusiastic  friends.  This  detachment  of  the  Eighth 
Massachusetts  now  accompanied  the  train. 

As  the  train  moved  on,  a  small  body  of  men  were  dis 
covered  ahead,  busily  destroying  the  track.  Skirmishers 
were  immediately  sent  out  to  capture  them,  but  the  party 
took  the  alarm  and  ran  to  the  woods.  Three  miles  out,  the 
road  was  broken  up  so  badly  that  it  required  regular  re 
pairs.  The  orders  of  Colonel  Lefferts,  however,  had  been 
for  the  advance  to  push  on  a  mile  farther,  and  there  halt 
until  the  remainder  of  the  regiment  should  come  up.  Ac 
cordingly  the  engine  and  the  two  rear  cars  were  aban 
doned,  and  drag-ropes  were  fastened  to  the  two  front 
platform-cars,  carrying  "the  howitzer,  with  its  ammuni 
tion  and  the  knapsacks.  A  body  of  skirmishers-  was 
thrown  out  from  each  company  on  either  flank  of  the 
railroad,  —  those  of  the  Second  Company  under  Lieutenant 
Farnham,  and  those  of  the  Sixth  under  Lieutenant  Hal- 
stead, —  and  continued  to  act  as  such  during  the  entire 
inarch.  The  remainder  of  Captain  Nevers's  command 
manned  the  drag-ropes,  and  pulled  along  the  two  cars, 
stopping  now  and  again  to  put  back  some  rail  thrown 
out  of  its  place. 

By  nine  o'clock,  however,  the  distance  prescribed  by 
Colonel  Lefferts  had  been  passed,  and  Captain  Nevers  ac 
cordingly  halted  his  men  and  stacked  arms,  and  under  the 
shade  of  the  woods  the  troops  ate  the  now  scanty  ration 
set  aside  for  breakfast.  A  reconnoitring  party  was  pushed 
ahead,  but  found  nothing  but  mounted  citizens  flying  from 
the  path  of  the  column,  and  apparently  unarmed.  The 
single  farm-house,  a  log  structure,  on  the  hill  which  formed 
the  temporary  camp,  was  deserted ;  but  presently  the  lord 
of  the  manor  crept  from  his  hiding-place  in  the  woods,  fear 

7 


98  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

for  his  property  at  length  overcoming  fear  for  his  person. 
The  pleasant  jingle  of  silver,  and  the  flavor  of  wine  from 
Captain  Clark's  flask  (which  latter  he  cautiously  required 
Colonel  Hinks  and  Lieutenant  Bunting  to  taste  before  par 
taking),  put  his  fears  to  flight,  and  he  came  out  quite 
strong  for  "  the  Union  as  it  was."  * 

Meanwhile,  at  dawn,  the  reveille  had  roused  the  main 
body  of  the  regiment.  Blankets  and  overcoats  were  rolled 
up  and  strapped  upon  knapsacks ;  canteens  were  filled  with 
water  tinged  with  vinegar  ;  three  days'  rations,  consisting  of 
six  navy  biscuit  and  pieces  of  raw  salt  pork  or  beef,  were 
served  to  each  man  ;  cartridges  were  distributed,  and  guns 
loaded,  for  the  start.  It  was  a  delicious  April  morning, 
and  the  fragrance  of  the  apple-blossoms  and  the  fresh 
green  grass  filled  the  air.  No  word  coming  from  the  ad 
vance,  the  regiment  left  the  Naval  Academy  soon  after 
seven,  and  threaded  the  queer,  old-fashioned  little  city  of  An 
napolis.  The  town  was  all  alive,  and  many  an  eye  looked 
askance  at  the  "  invaders,"  but  the  on-lookers  wisely  held 
their  hands  from  blows  and  their  tongues  from  taunts.  In 
truth,  the  Annapolitans  were  already  gained  over ;  for 
while  the  imposing  array  of  the  famous  Seventh  had  dis 
heartened  the  hostile,  their  courtesy  and  liberality  had  pro- 

*  A  letter  of  Lieutenant  Bunting  gives  some  details  of  this  "raid."  He  says: 
"  Having  nothing  to  eat,  I  took  twelve  men  and  went  to  a  house  on  the  top  of  the 
hill,  where  we  could  see  all  around  the  country  for  some  distance.  Saw  nothing 
of  the  enemy,  so  we  knocked  at  the  door.  No  answer.  Opened  the  door,  and  went 
in.  Found  the  house  empty.  Looked  in  the  cupboard  and  found  some  preserves. 
We  ate  them  in  short  order.  Looked  under  the  bed,  and  found  a  basket  of  eggs 
(hens',  ducks',  and  turkeys'),  which  we  sucked.  Then  we  found  a  second  cupboard, 
and  in  it  some  fat  bacon.  This  we  sent  after  the  eggs  and  preserves,  and  were 
ready  for  either  a  fight  or  a  mai-ch.  As  we  were  getting  ready  to  leave,  a  man 
came  rushing  in,  in  great  haste  and  much  scared.  We  extended  the  hospitalities 
of  the  house  to  him,  and  he  took  a  seat.  We  soon  ascertained  that  he  was  the 
proprietor,  and  that  his  family  had  got  scared  and  run  into  the  swamp.  Sent  him 
after  them,  when  they  returned.  We  recounted  the  damage  we  had  done,  and  told 
the  old  fellow  to  fix  his  price.  He  said  we  were  heartily  welcome,  —  we  knew  he 
lied,  —  and  that  the  things  were  worth  probably  $3.  We  gave  him  $  10,  and  he 
was  the  happiest  man  in  the  State." 


THE  MARCH  TO   WASHINGTON.  99 

yoked  admiration  and  even  a  certain  sympathy.*  Thus, 
before  the  regiment  set  out  from  Annapolis,  its  conquest 
was  half  achieved. 

Colonel  Lefferts  left  Annapolis  in  good  hands.  The 
transports  in  the  Severn  were  loaded  with  four  regiments 
of  militia,  following  in  the  wake  of  his  own,  and  two  more 
were  daily  expected,  so  that  Annapolis  and  its  neighborhood 
were  henceforth  safe.  His  own  men  were  as  well  provis 
ioned  as  possible  under  the  circumstances,  and  had  started 
fresh  and  in  good  spirits  on  their  march.  When  in  Phila 
delphia,  as  we  have  seen,  Colonel  LefTerts  had  sent  word 
to  New  York  that  Annapolis  was  the  point  to  which  recruits 
and  supplies  were  to  be  sent  forward.  Nine  of  his  men 
came  in  the  Baltic,  and  provisions  were  on  the  way  to  the 
same  point.  Before  dawn,  Colonel  Lefferts  had  despatched 
a  message  to  the  Baltic,  to  endeavor  to  obtain  additional  sup 
plies,  and  immediately  received  from  Colonel  (now  Major- 
General)  Butterfield  the  following  answer :  — 

"  I  have  the  honor  of  acknowledging  receipt  of  your  communication 
of  this  date,  and,  in  compliance  with  your  request,  I  now  send  you  here 
with  a  detachment  of  nine  men  of  your  regiment,  brought  on  by  me 
from  NCAV  York.  The  troops  under  my  command  will  receive  march 
ing  orders  from  Lieutenant-Colonel  Keyes. 

"  We  are  all  ready  to  support  you,  each  eager  to  be  first. 

"  The  strength  of  my  command  is  nine  hundred  and  over.  I  will  lay 
your  communication  before  Colonel  Keyes  immediately  upon  his  return 
to  the  ship.  The  rations  on  board  are  property  of  the  United  States 
government,  and  are  uncooked  provisions.  You  will  please  send  a 
requisition  for  what  you  want,  and  I  will  endeavor  to  procure  them 
for  you.  The  transport  R.  R.  Cuyler  has  on  board  the  Seventy-First 
Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  M  ;  the  Columbia,  the  Sixth  Regiment  N.  Y. 
8.  M. ;  the  Coatsacoalcos,  the  First  Regiment  R.  I.  troops,  led  by 
Governor  Sprague  in  person.  The  Eighth  and  Sixty-Ninth  Regiments 
were  to  have  followed  us  the  next  day  from  New  York." 

*  A  letter  to  the  New  York  Times,  from  the  Sixth  New  York  Militia,  which 
landed  at  Annapolis  just  after  the  Seventh  left,  says :  "  The  Seventh  have  won 
golden  opinions  here.  When  they  started,  they  found  the  farmers  terrified,  but 
the  name  of  the  Seventh  National  Guard  seemed  to  act  like  magic." 


100  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Leaving  the  officers'  baggage  and  camp  equipage  at  the 
Naval  Academy,  Colonel  Lefferts  pushed  through  Annapolis 
to  the  depot,  and  thence  out  along  the  track  to  overtake  the 
advance.  It  was  about  eight  o'clock  when  he  left  the  sta 
tion,  and  the  troops  marched  briskly.  The  morning  breeze ' 
had  died  away,  and  soon  the  sun  poured  down  upon  the  heads 
of  the  men,  as  one  of  the  sufferers  expressed  it,  "  like  hot 
lava."  The  railroad  runs  for  miles  through  a  gorge,  which, 
in  concentrating  the  sun's  heat,  excludes  any  breath  of 
fresh  air,  and  the  country  around  is  arid  and  sandy. 
The  men  had  had  a  scanty  breakfast,  little  rest  the  preced 
ing  night  (on  account  of  the  alarm  and  the  early  start), 
and,  indeed,  little  to  boast  of  in  rest  or  rations  for  many 
days  ;  but  they  clung  manfully  to  the  march,  and  fell 
headlong  under  the  sun's  rays  only  to  hurry  on  again  and 
reach  the  ever-advancing  column.  About  ten,  the  shanty 
or  farm-house  where  Captain  Nevers's  advance  was  posted 
was  reached. 

The  main  march  and  the  main  difficulty  and  danger 
were  now  before  the  regiment.  The  only  serious  opposition 
was  expected  near  the  Junction  ;  and  the  few  citizens  en 
countered  on  the  road  confirmed  the  report  that  a  concen 
tration  of  the  enemy  had  been  intended  there,  it  being  not 
only  a  strategic  point  important  to  hold,  but  also  at  a  consid 
erable  distance  from  the  Union  force  in  reserve  at  Annapo 
lis.  The  only  information,  however,  was  that  resistance 
there  had  been  planned ;  whether  the  prompt  march  of  the 
Seventh  might  not  foil  the  intent  was  still  conjectural. 
The  regiment,  having  been  rested,  was  now  moved  forward 
along  the  track.  The  Second  and  Sixth  Companies,  having 
had  the  longest  rest,  pushed  on  in  advance.  At  the  head 
of  the  main  column  was  Lieutenant  Bunting's  platform-car 
with  its  howitzer ;  some  distance  behind,  another  platform- 
car  fitted  up  for  the  sick  and  wounded  and  for  medical 
stores  ;  while  a  third,  containing  the  remaining  howitzer 


THE   MAKCH  TO  WASHINGTON.  101 

(also  loaded  with  grape)  and  its  ammunition,  which  had 
been  brought  on  by  the  main  body,  brought  up  the  rear. 
Skirmishers  were  again  thrown  out  on  each  flank  to  the 
distance  of  half  a  mile  to  scour  the  country  and  guard 
against  sudden  assault  from  mounted  guerilla  parties. 

Three  miles  more,  under  the  noonday  sun,  the  regiment 
pursued  its  exhausting  march.  The  scouting-parties 
plunged  into  forest  and  fen  on  either  side,  sweeping  the 
country  in  a  swath  a  mile  broad.  The  main  force  on  the 
track  toiled  wearily  along  upon  a  railroad  laid  on  sleepers 
but  little  sunk  in  the  sandy  or  clayey  soil,  now  in  an  arid 
open  country,  and  now  plunging  through  a  cut  where  no 
breeze  ruffled  the  stifling  atmosphere.  The  engine  and 
passenger  cars  had  been  left  behind  for  the  use  of  the 
Eighth  Massachusetts,  now  also  on  the  march  from  Annapo 
lis  ;  but  the  platform-cars  afforded  a  chance  to  give  a  lift 
to  the  sun-struck  and  the  exhausted,  whom  their  gallant 
comrades  at  the  drag-ropes  pulled  along.  Despite  the 
fatigue,  heat,  and  lack  of  water,  the  labor  of  scouting 
to  the  outlying  companies,  and  that  of  repairing  the  track 
to  the  main  column,  the  troops  all  behaved  gallantly,*  and 
the  regiment  marched  more  solidly  than  is  customary  with 
recruits.  The  skirmishers,  threading  woods  and  swamps, 
reported  stray  mounted  men  hovering  about,  but  no  force 
whatever  on  either  flank.  The  saying  of  the  people  of 
Annapolis,  that  the  regiment  "  could  not  march  ten  miles 
without  fighting  their  way,"  had  been  happily  falsified. 

About  3  P.  M.,  a  water-station  on  the  railroad,  dignified 
by  the  name  of  Millersville  (though  local  habitation  there 

*  Instances  of  the  plucky  conduct  of  individuals  on  this  march  were  published 
in  the  newspapers  of  the  time,  but  need  not  be  repeated.  One  of  these,  for  exam 
ple,  gives  the  name  of  a  private  who,  "  while  marching  from  Annapolis  to  the 
Junction,  was  sun-struck,  and  lay  insensible  for  two  hours.  On  recovering  his 
senses,  he  was  told  by  the  Colonel  and  surgeons  that  he  must  go  back  to  New 
York,  but  begged  to  be  permitted  to  join  his  company,  and,  watching  his  chance, 
escaped  and  caught  them,  and  performed  his  duty  as  a  scout  all  that  night.  On 
arriving  at  Washington  he  had  a  relapse,  and  lay  for  two  days  unconscious." 


102  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

was  none),  had  been  reached,  but  the  labor  of  repairing 
the  track  had  been  such  that,  even  with  very  brisk  work 
during  the  last  three  hours,  but  three  miles  had  been  ac 
complished.  "  The  Engineer  Corps,"  says  O'Brien,  "  had, 
of  course,  to  do  the  forwarding  work,  —  New  York  dan 
dies,  sir,  —  but  they  built  bridges,  laid  rails,  and  headed  the 
regiment  through  that  terrible  march."  Sometimes  the 
missing  rails  were  found  in  the  bushes  near  the  road,  and 
sometimes  they  had  been  dragged  several  rods  distant,  and 
plunged  into  thicket  or  marsh.  Accordingly,  the  scouts 
were  directed  to  keep  an  eye  for  rails  as  well  as  Rebels,  and 
woods  were  searched  and  ditches  dragged  till  nearly  all 
were  replaced.  Some  rails  and  sleepers,  however,  had 
been  hidden  beyond  discovery  ;  their  places  were  supplied 
by  substitutes  taken  up  from  "  turn-outs "  and  from  the 
Annapolis  switches.  The  spare  timber  and  rails,  with  the 
spikes  and  hammers,  were  piled  on  a  car  and  pushed  on  by 
the  men.  In  these  labors  the  Massachusetts  men,  some  of 
whom  had  continued  on  with  the  Seventh,  lent  their  hearty 
and  valuable  aid.  Such,  was  the  noontide  work  of  a  day 
on  which  the  thermometer  ranged  from  85°  to  90°,  and 
whose  full  rations  were  two  biscuits  and  a  bit  of  raw 
pork. 

But  an  unexpected  rest  was  now  at  hand.  The  railroad 
bridge  crossing  the  stream  just  beyond  Millersville  statiori 
had  been  burned  by  the  enemy.  As  the  bridge  was  twenty 
feet  high  and  sixteen  feet  long,  to  rebuild  it,  even  though 
some  of  the  old  timbers  could  be  used,  was  an  affair  of  two 
hours.  While  the  regiment  was  halting  for  this  purpose, 
the  engine  and  train  came  up,  thus  proving  the  success  of 
the  day's  track-laying.  It  brought  up,  too,  the  men  who  had 
fallen  out  from  exhaustion  ;  and,  these  having  been  disem 
barked,  Colonel  Lefferts  sent  it  back  for  the  use  of  the 
Eighth  Regiment.  Only  two  men  of  the  Seventh,  despite 
the  fatigues  of  the  day,  went  back  on  this  train,  —  one,  a 


THE   MARCH   TO   WASHINGTON.  103 

man  sun-struck  ;  the  other,  private  De  Van  Postley,  of  the 
Second  Company,  wounded  in  the  knee  by  the  discharge  of 
his  own  pistol.  The  rest  of  the  stragglers  and  exhausted 
got  recruited  during  the  halt. 

Just  as  preparation  was  making  to  rebuild  the  bridge, 
a  storm  came  up.  Refuge  was  taken  in  the  forest,  and 
blankets  were  stretched  as  tents  ;  but  the  storm  burst  on 
the  camp  with  great  fury,  and  soaked,  not  only  the  blankets, 
but  the  men  under  them.  It  was  a  refreshing  shower-bath 
for  the  moment,  but  it  made  clothing  and  blankets  poor 
protection  against  the  ensuing  night. 

When  the  storm  was  nearly  spent,  the  heavy  regimental 
detail  for  the  working  party  went  briskly  to  work,  under 
Sergeant  Scott,  of  the  non-commissioned  staff,  and  armorer. 
The  Engineer  Corps  guided  operations,  and  the  men  worked 
heartily.  Trees  were  selected,  felled,  cut  down,  and  hewed 
into  timber,  the  joists  laid,  the  rails  cut  with  rough  chisel 
and  sledge  to  the  proper  length,  and  then  spiked  to  the 
wood.  By  hearty  and  sharp  work,  in  two  or  three  hours 
the  Millersville  Bridge  —  the  first  and  last  bridge  the 
Seventh  had  ever  been  called  upon  to  construct — was 
finished.*  When  the  work  was  done,  and  the  last  stroke 
of  the  axe  and  clang  of  the  sledge  were  heard,  the  sun  had 
sunk  below  the  horizon. 

During  the  long  halt  at  Millersville,  the  main  body  of 
the  Eighth  Regiment,  which  had  left  the  Annapolis  depot  in 
the  forenoon,  came  up  to  the  Seventh's  camp.  The  main 
body  of  the  Seventh  was  halted  at  the  watering-station,  a 
quarter  of  a  mile  or  less  from  the  bridge,  while  the  latter 

*  Major  Winthrop  writes  pleasantly  of  the  Seventh's  exploits  in  track  laying 
and  bridge-building:  "Scott  called  for  a  working  party.  There  were  plenty  of 
handy  fellows  among  our  engineers  and  in  the  line.  Tools  were  plenty  in  the 
engineers'  chest.  We  pushed  the  platform-car  upon  which  howitzer  No.  1  was 
mounted  down  to  the  gap,  and  began  operations.  Scott  and  his  party  made  a 
good  and  quick  job  of  it.  Our  friends  of  the  Massachusetts  Eighth  had  now  come 
up.  They  lent  a  ready  hand,  as  usual." 


104  HISTORY    OF   THE  SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

was  under  repair  by  the  working  party  detailed  for  the 
purpose.  The  Eighth  halted  at  the  bridge,  being  thus  in 
terposed  between  the  advance  and  the  main  body  of  the 
Seventh  ;  and,  interested  in  the  work  of  bridge-building  and 
track-laying  going  on  in  the  stream,  some  of  them  were 
prompt  to  "  bear  a  hand  "  and  help  the  work  along.  The 
bridge  was  soon  after  finished,  and  Colonel  Monroe  of  the 
Eighth,  at  the  request  of  Colonel  Lefferts,  drew  his  men 
aside,  whereupon  the  main  body  of  the  Seventh  closed  up 
to  the  advance.  With  the  column  thus  formed,  and  the 
bridge  complete,  the  Seventh  started  on  once  more  to  pio 
neer  the  way,  exchanging  hearty  adieus  with  their  Massa 
chusetts  friends.  "  By  twilight,"  says  Winthrop,  "  there 
was  a  practicable  bridge.  The  engine  was  despatched  back 
to  keep  the  road  open.  The  two  platform-cars,  freighted 
with  our  howitzers,  were  rigged  with  the  gun-ropes  for 
dragging  along  the  rail.  We  passed  through  the  files  of 
the  Massachusetts  men  resting  by  the  way,  and  eating  by 
the  fires  of  the  evening  the  suppers  we  had  in  great  part 
provided  them  ;  and  so  begins  our  night-march." 

Night  had  indeed  come.  Colonel  Lefferts  would  have 
been  fully  justified,  after  the  hard  day's  work,  in  making  a 
halt  until  daylight,  and  perhaps  it  would  have  been  more 
prudent  to  do  so.  But  he  pushed  on,  and  in  the  same 
order  of  march.  Of  the  three  platform-cars  which  the 
regiment  dragged  with  them,  one  contained  the  two  how 
itzers  and  their  ammunition ;  a  second,  the  spikes,  sledges, 
rails,  chairs,  and  timbers  ;  while  the  third,  deftly  arranged 
with  knapsacks  and  blankets,  served  as  an  ambulance  for 
those  who  fell  disabled  from  the  ranks. 

It  was  a  delicious  night,  with  the  moon  at  full  orb.  The 
bright  rifle-barrels  glinted  in  the  sombre  forests,  as  the 
long  column  plunged  into  and  anon  emerged  from  the 
narrow  defiles  through  which  the  railroad  runs.  Overcome 
by  the  heat  and  burden  of  the  day,  and  bv  want  of  rest 


THE   MARCH   TO   WASHINGTON.  105 

and  food,  the  regiment  had  little  thought  of  the  match 
less  beauty  of  the  scene.  The  march  under  the  burning 
sun  had  been  succeeded  by  a  march  more  trying,  in  which 
"  every  railroad  tie  was  a  wearying  stumbling-block,"  and 
the  rough  road-bed  was  slippery  from  the  rain.  The 
clothing  of  the  men  was  drenched,  and  chill,  cutting  blasts 
swept  out  from  the  swamps  and  through  the  dark  ravines. 
The  work  of  laying  the  track  was  laborious  in  the  darkness, 
and  the  dragging  of  the  cars  was  tiresome.  The  skir 
mishers  of  the  Second  and  Sixth  Companies  in  advance 
had  no  pleasant  quest  in  brake  and  fen  on  either  hand. 

Had  Colonel  Lefferts's  present  plan  embraced  only  the 
pioneering  of  the  way  to  Washington,  he  could  have  ac 
complished  that  by  a  forced  march,  dropping  all  encum 
brances,  and  pushing  through  "  by  daylight  "  to  the  Junc 
tion.  But  he  had  proposed  to  lay  a  track  for*  other  regi 
ments,  and  so,  through  the  night-hours,  whenever  a  rail 
was  missing,  a  halt  was  cried.  The  scouting  -  parties 
scoured  field  and  ford  for  it ;  sometimes  the  search  was  a 
long  one,  sometimes  the  rail  was  sunk  in  the  gloom  of  the 
woods,  sometimes  it  was  but  a  few  rods  distant  in  the 
hollow  of  a  neighboring  field.  But,  far  or  near,  it  was 
ferreted  out,  and  the  chairs,  too,  on  which  it  rested,  unless, 
as  often  happened,  the  latter,  with  the  spikes  themselves, 
had  been  left  on  the  rpadside  by  the  stupid  guerillas.  To 
be  prepared  for  more  successful  hidings,  the  side-tracks  at 
turn-outs  were  torn  up  and  dragged  along  on  the  cars,  with 
whatever  other  material  might  be  turned  to  account.*  In 
one  place  about  twenty  feet  of  track,  rails,  chairs,  and  ties, 

*  "  So,  '  Out  crowbars ! '  was  the  word.  We  tore  up  and  bagged  half  a  dozen 
rails,  with  chairs  and  spikes  complete.  Here,  too,  some  of  the  engineers  found  a 
keg  of  spikes.  This  was  also  bagged  and  loaded  on  our  cars."  (Winthrop's  u  Our 
March  to  Washington.")  Again  the  same  gay  campaigner  writes:  "Three  rails 
were  up.  Two  of  them  were  easily  found.  The  third  was  discovered  by 
beating  the  bush  thoroughly.  Bonnell  and  I  ran  back  for  tools,  and  returned  at 

full  trot  with  crowbar  and  sledge Not  a  half-mile  passed  without  a  rail  up. 

Bonnell  was  always  at  the  front,  laying  track,  and  I  am  proud  to  say  that  he  ac- 


106  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

had  been  lifted  up,  and  pitched  to  the  bottom  of  the  steep 
embankment.  The  howitzer  ropes  were  fastened  upon  this 
section,  and  it  was  hauled  i  p  into  place. 

What  with  bushwhacking,  and  tugging  at  rails,  and  laying 
of  track,  the  march  seemed  intolerably  slow.  The  officers, 
kept  up  by  a  sense  of  responsibility,  were,  like  the  men  de 
tailed  for  scouting  and  blacksmithcry,  happier  in  their  labors 
than  the  unoccupied  majority,  to  whom  Jialting  and  march 
ing  were  alike  wearisome.  At  first  the  ground  seemed  so 
damp  that  the  men  hesitated  to  throw  themselves  upon  it, 
at  a  pause,  in  their  wet  clothing ;  but  at  length,  overcome  by 
exhaustion,  at  the  cry  of  "  Halt ! "  they  tumbled  on  the 
earth,  there  dozing  till  the  word  "  Attention  !  "  broke  their 
brief  dreams.  "  In  several  instances,"  says  one  account, 
"  sleeping  men  rolled  down  the  railroad  embankment,  to 
the  imminent  danger  of  life  and  limb  ;  and  when  on  the 
inarch  they  trudged  along  half  conscious,  half  dreaming, 
many  exhibiting  the  symptoms  which  are  ascribed  to  those 
who  perish  from  hunger,  cold,  and  exhaustion.  It  was  not 
uncommon  to  notice  men  marching  forward  upon  the 
uneven  railroad  track  with  their  eyes  completely  closed, 
their  heads  falling  forward  or  from  side  to  side."  Fitz 
James  O'Brien  says  :  — 

"  I  know  not  if  T  can  describe  that  night's  march.  I  have  dim  recol 
lections  of  deep  cuts  through  which  we  passed,  gloomy  and  treacherous 

cepted  me  as  aide-de-camp.  Other  fellows,  unknown  to  me  in  the  dark,  gave 
hearty  help.  The  Seventh  showed  that  it  could  do  something  else  than  drill." 

A  despatch  to  the  New  York  Tribune,  from  Washington,  says:  "  The  track  was 
torn  up  at  intervals  for  a  long  distance.  To  mend  this  was  a  slow  and  tedious 
work.  The  rails  and  sleepers  had  been  dragged  from  their  places  and  flung  away. 
These  must  be  found,  fitted,  and  fastened.  This  too,  by  men  used  to  Wail  Street, 
Park  Place,  the  Fifth  Avenue,  and  the  Bloomingdale  Road,  but  not  hitherto 

counted  expert  as  builders  of  railroads.    Nevertheless,  they  succeeded 

This  experience  has  been  a-  good  one.  It  has  shown  the  North  of  what  stuff 
their  most  cherished  sons  are  made.  The  race  of  the  present  day  is  not  ef 
feminate,  nor  indolent,  nor  dried  up,  nor  burnt  out.  Vigorous  and  full  of  the 
manliest  manhood,  it  will  show  to  the  whole  country  that  it  is  equal  to  the  charge 
committed  to  it  in  these  trying  days." 


THE   MARCH   TO   WASHINGTON.  107 

looking,  with  the  moon  shining  full  on  our  muskets,  while  the  banks 
were  wrapped  in  shade,  and  each  moment  expecting  to  see  the  flash  and 
hear  the  crack  of  the  rifle  of  the  Southern  guerilla.  The  tree-frogs 
and  lizards  made  a  mournful  music  as  we  passed.  The  soil  on  which 
we  travelled  was  soft  and  heavy.  The  sleepers  lying  at  intervals  across 
the  track  made  the  marching  terribly  fatiguing.  On  all  sides  dark, 
lonely  pine-woods  stretched  away;  and  high  over  the  hooting  of  owls 
or  the  plaintive  petition  of  the  whippoorwill  rose  the  bass  commands 
of  '  Halt ! '  '  Forward,  march  ! '  and  when  we  came  to  any  ticklish  spot  the 
word  would  run  from  the  head  of  the  column  along  the  line,  '  Holes,' 
'  Bridge,  pass  it  along/  &c. 

"  As  the  night  wore  on,  the  monotony  of  the  march  became  oppressive. 
Owing  to  our  having  to  explore  every  inch  of  the  way,  we  did  not  make 
more  than  a  mile  or  a  mile  and  a  half  an  hour.  We  ran  out  of  stimu 
lants,  and  almost  out  of  water.  Most  of  us  had  not  slept  for  four  nights, 
and  as  the  night  advanced  our  march  was  almost  a  stagger.  This  wTas 
not  so  much  fatigue  as  want  of  excitement.  Our  fellows  were  spoiling 
for  a  fight ;  and  when  a  dropping  shot  was  heard  in  the  distance,  it  was 
wonderful  to  see  how  the  languid  legs  straightened,  and  the  column 
braced  itself  for  action.  If  we  had  had  even  the  smallest  kind  of  a 
skirmish,  the  men  would  have  been  able  to  walk  to  Washington.  As  it 
was,  we  went  sleepily  on.  1  myself  fell  asleep  walking  in  the  ranks. 
Numbers,  I  find,  followed  my  example." 

In  the  same  strain,  Winthrop  says :  "  Hardly  any  one 
had  had  any  full  or  substantial  sleep  or  meal  since  we 
started  from  New  York.  They  napped  off,  standing,  lean 
ing  on  their  guns,  dropping  down  in  their  tracks,  on  the 
wet  ground,  at  every  halt.  They  were  sleepy,  but  plucky." 
Still  another  published  account  says  :  "  The  boys  were  so 
tired  that,  when  we  stopped,  they  fell  down  to  sleep  as  if 
they  were  dead." 

There  were  calls  for  the  advance  to  "  scare  up  the  Rebs  "  ; 
but  the  guerillas  kept  out  of  harm's  way.*  As  the 

*  C.  S.  H.  writes :  u  I  was  one  of  the  skirmishers,  and  did  not  sleep  a  wink  from 
two  and  a  half  o'clock  on  Wednesday  morning  until  four  on  Thursday  morning. 
There  were  thirty-five  of  our  company  that  went  ahead  of  the  rest  to  look  for  the 
Secessionists.  One  of  the  party  saw  four  men  tearing  up  the  track  a  little  dis 
tance  off.  The  order  wae  given:  'Throw  away  your  blankets,  double-quick, 
march.'  On  we  went  on  the  run,  and  then  the  order  was  given:  'Ready,  right 
oblique,  aim.'  But  the  rascals  were  already  in  the  woods." 


108  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

regiment  threaded  the  gloomy  forest  aisles,  or  plunged 
into  the  dismal  and  deceitful  denies  of  the  road,  it  would 
have  been  an  easy  prey  to  an  equal  force  lying  in  ambush 
and  sure  of  the  ground.  However,  the  enemy,  alarmed  by 
the  absurdly  extravagant  reports  of  the  numbers  and  prow 
ess  of  the  Seventh,  did  not  collect,  had  not,  indeed,  sufficient 
time  for  organization.  The  only  alarm  in  the  night  was 
a  trivial  one,  produced  by  the  accidental  discharge  of  a  gun, 
which  alarmed  the  skirmishers  in  advance,  who  thereupon 
fired  several  muskets  and  pistols  to  announce  their  own 
position. 

So  the  night  wore  on,  without  a  respite  in  the  toilsome 
march.  One  of  Colonel  Lefferts's  officers,  coming  to  the 
head  of  the  column,  declared  to  the  Colonel  that  it  was  "  in 
human  "  to  continue  the  march.  But  the  Colonel,  who  had 
not  slept  a  moment  for  two  nights  and  a  day,  and  rightly 
judged  that  the  spirit  of  his  men  was  one  with  his  own, 
pressed  on.  Some  of  the  officers  of  the  Eighth  Massachu 
setts  also  came  up  from  their  own  regiment  in  the  rear, 
and  urged  the  commander  of  the  Seventh  to  abandon  the 
platform-cars  on  which  the  howitzers  were  transported. 
He  replied  that  he  should  abandon  nothing,  and  marched 
steadily  on. 

At  length,  between  three  and  four  o'clock,  just  as  day 
was  dawning,  the  regiment  debouched  from  the  woods  and 
swamp.  It  was  hard  by  Annapolis  Junction,  at  which  point 
opposition  had  been  looked  for.  The  Colonel  halted  the 
regiment  in  an  open  ground,  and  taking  a  detachment  of 
about  one  hundred  and  fifty  skirmishers,  proceeded  with 
them  to  reconnoitre.  He  found  the  Junction  deserted. 

Returning  to  the  regiment,  resting  in  a  wheat-field,  he 
allowed  fires  to  be  built  of  the  neighboring  fence-rails,  for 
which,  as  for  anything  else  seized  during  the  campaign, 
liberal  payment  was  made  at  once.  Most  of  the  men  lay 
down  directly  to  sleep,  while  others  started  in  pursuit  of 


THE   MARCH   TO   WASHINGTON.  109 

provisions.  The  people  of  the  village  and  of  the  farm 
houses  were  aroused  by  the  foraging-parties  of  the  hungry 
troops  ;  and  bread,  eggs,  milk,  fowls,  and  other  edibles,  were 
gladly  brought  out  for  sale. 

It  was  found  that  the  railroad  between  Washington  and 
the  Junction  had  been  kept  from  the  hands  of  the  insur 
gents,  and  that  the  government,  anxious  for  the  arrival  of 
the  regiment,  had  already,  the  day  before,  sent  a  train  of 
cars  to  the  latter  point  to  receive  it.  For  a  few  hours, 
therefore,  and  until  the  train  should  arrive,  the  regiment 
took  rest  and  sleep,  —  the  advance  in  the  village,  and  the 
main  body  around  their  camp-fires  in  the  wheat-field. 
At  length  the  train  came,  in  charge  of  the  "  National 
Rifles,"  Captain  Smead.  The  whole  regiment  was  soon 
on  board  the  cars,  which  were  crowded  to  overflowing, 
and,  leaving  the  Junction  at  ten  o'clock  of  April  25th, 
arrived  at  noon,  without  further  incident  of  importance,  in 
the  city  of  Washington. 


110 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


RESULTS    OF    THE    MARCH. 

IRED  a,s  they  were,  when 
Colonel  Lefferts  saw,  ou 
arriving  at  Washington,  its 
state  of  anxiety  and  alarm, 
he  did  not  hesitate  to  march 
his  men  from  the  depot  to 
the  President's  mansion ; 
and  it  was  only  after  pass 
ing  in'  review  before  the 
President,  who  stood,  all 
smiles,  ready  to  greet  the 
reinforcement  he  had  so 
long  looked  for,  that  the 
men  were  allowed  to  break 
ranks  and  go  in  search  of 
rations  and  rest. 

The  arrival  of  this  splen 
did  a,rray  of  reinforcements 
produced    a    happy    effect 
people  of  Washington,  and  not   less  upon   the 
"  The  effect  of  this  movement,"  said 


—— ^ 


upon  the 

national  authorities, 
the  Adjutant-General  of  the  United  States, "  no  one  can  esti 
mate  so  well  as  those  of  us  present  in  our  capital.  At  this 
time  we  were  surrounded  by  enemies,  with  traitors  in  our 
midst,  and,  worst  of  all,  those  of  my  own  profession,  on 
whom  the  government  had  a  right  to  look  for  support. 
Then  it  was  that  you  came  forward,  with  bayonets  far  more 


RESULTS   OF   THE   MARCH.  Ill 

in  number  than  you  ever  paraded  on  a  gala-day.  And 
when,  after  great  difficulties  and  delays,  you  reached  the 
capital,  what  a  thrill  of  delight  pervaded  our  loyal  popu 
lation  !  In  every  direction  you  could  hear,  '  THE  SEVENTH 
HAVE  COME  ! '  The  anxious  week,  and  especially  the  dark 
Sunday,  had  passed,  and  we  felt  secure." 

It  was  doubtless  a  delicious  mingling  of  the  feelings  of 
joy  and  pride, — joy  to  find  the  capital  still  in  the  ha.nds 
of  the  nation,  and  pride  at  the  consciousness  of  having  come 
through  trials  to  its  rescue,  —  that  inspired  the  regiment, 
and  made  its  march  through  Pennsylvania  Avenue  that  day, 
despite  the  week's  weariness,  a  superb  exhibition  of  soldierly 
precision.*  But  there  was  enough  in  the  circumstances  of 
that  day  to  give  the  regiment  spirit.  "  Until  we  actually 
saw  the  train  awaiting  us  [at  Annapolis  Junction],"  says 
Winthrop,  "  and  the  Washington  companies  who  had  come 
down  to  escort  us  drawn  up,  we  did  not  know  whether 
our  Uncle  Sam  was  still  a  resident  of  the  capital."  When, 
therefore,  the  flag«of  the  Union  was  descried  floating  over 

*  A  Washington  letter  to  the  New  York  Herald,  sent  via  Perrysville  and  Havre 
de  Grace,  says :  "  The  five  days  of  isolation  from  the  remainder  of  the  world,  which 
to  Washington  seemed  a  month,  have  ended.  The  Seventh  Re'giment,  reported  now 
to  have  been  cut  to  pieces;  now  to  be  coming  up  the  Potomac  in  the  old  Constitu 
tion,  towed  by  steam-tugs;  now  to  be  marching  across  the  country,  and  now  to  be 
aground  in  a  vessel  off  Annapolis,  —  reached  the  railroad  station  here  about  noon 
yesterday.  The  whistle,  not  heard  for  many  hours  in  our  isolated  position,  brought 
an  excited  crowd  to  welcome  them  to  the  city;  and  the  welcome  extended  along 
Pennsylvania  Avenue  to  the  White  House,  where  they  were  reviewed  by  the  Presi 
dent  and  Secretaries  Seward  and  Cameron. 

"  As  you  will  see,  when  I  tell  you  the  history  of  the  previous  thirty-six  hours,  it 
required  no  little  spirit  to  march  that  hot,  dusty  two  miles,  over  heated  pavements. 
One  of  the  most  stalwart  men  in  the  regiment,  a  man  who  weighs  one  hundred  and 
eighty  pounds,  and  has  always  been  a  leader  in  gymnastics  and  boating,  told  me 
this  morning  that  his  feet  felt  at  every  step  as  though  knives  were  running  through 
them.  A  sergeant's  feet  were  a  mass  of  blisters,  and  many  others  were  in  a  bad 
plight.  Yet,  with  true  Seventh  Regiment  pluck,  after  such  a  march  as  Regular 
troops  seldom  make,  —  a  inarch  worse,  says  one  of  the  band,  who  served  in  the 
Mexican  War,  and  at  other  times  in  the  Regular  Army,  than  any  forced  march 
within  his  experience,  —  every  man.  except  three  cr  four  who  were  sun-struck  on 
the  previous  day  and  had  not  then  entirely  recovered,  was  in  the  ranks.  All  are 
well  now,  and  present  their  usual  fine  appearance." 


112  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

the  dome  of  the  Capitol,  the  rggiment  burst  into  hearty 
cheers.  No  wonder  that,  as  a  correspondent  wrote  to  the 
New  York  papers,  "  they  were  hailed  everywhere  as  sav 
iours,  and  when  they  had  marched  up  Pennsylvania  Ave 
nue,  the  people,  in  their  overwrought  feelings,  broke  the 
ranks,  and  grasped  the  hands  of  New  York's  National  Guard 
with  tears  of  joy  ;  the  Clay  Battalion,  the  Lane  Guard,  the 
President,  his  Cabinet,  and  General  Scott,  repeatedly  ex 
pressed  indebtedness."  * 

The  news  flashed  through  the  city,  and  thence  across  the 
country,  wherever  the  wires  had  not  been  cut  by  the  enemy. 
It  is  only'by  noting  the  universal  expressions  of  satisfaction 
and  relief  in  the  public  press  of  the  North  everywhere,  on 
learning  the  news,  that  the  true  measure  of  the  reliance 
•placed  upon  the  Seventh  in  this  darkest  hour  of  national 
exigency  can  be  fixed.  A  despatch  to  the  New  York 
Tribune,  from  Washington,  on  the  day  of  arrival,  April 
25th,  gives  a  more  vivid  account  of  the  feeling  existing 
in  that  city  than  any  later  historic  description  could  fur 
nish.  It  runs  thus  :  — 

"  The  Seventh  .Regiment  has  arrived  amid  the  wildest  enthusiasm. 
As  they  approached  the  station,  the  Sixth  Massachusetts  Regiment 
were  outside  the  Capitol,  and  a  mighty  cheer  went  up  from  the  mass, 
which  was  distinctly  heard  far  off  in  the  town.  At  once  the  city,  before 
BO  dull,  was  alive,  and  running  toward  the  station.  One  would  have 
thought  the  invasion  was  of  a  foe,  and  that  a  panic  had  seize^  the 
population. 

"  At  one  o'clock  the  regiment  was  on  the  Avenue,  marching  in  splen 
did  style  toward  the  White  House.  They  looked  worn  and  weary,  as 
well  they  might,  after  their  rough  work.  Nevertheless,  they  were  all  in 
good  spirits,  and  they  walked  almost  with  springing  steps.  As  they 

*  Another  correspondent  6ays :  "  They  marched  up  Pennsylvania  Avenue  about 
one  o'clock,  in  soldier-like  style,  with  knapsacks,  canteens,  great-coats,  etc., 
weather-bronzed,  and  looking  like  veterans.  Cheers  greeted  them:  and  as  they 
passed  in  review  before  President  Lincoln  at  the  White  House,  he  evidently  felt 
that  he  was  well  supported  in  his  determination  to  preserve  the  Union  and  to  en 
force  the  laws.  Mrs.  Lincoln  presented  the  regiment  with  a  magnificent  bouquet 
from  the  conservatory  at  the  White  House." 


RESULTS   OF   THE   MARCH.  113 

passed  along,  they  were  received  with  frequent  cheers,  and  the  ladies 
continually  waved  their  handkerchiefs,  while  smiles  were  on  every  face* 
No  body  of  men  could  ever  meet  a  more  enthusiastic  or  hearty  greeting 
than  they,  to  whom  every  bosom  seemed  to  warm.  When  in  place  of 
the  drums  and  fifes,  the  full  band  struck  up,  the  whole  city  danced  with 
delight.  A  greater  change  never  passed  over  a  town,  than  that  wrought 
in  the  space  of  half  an  hour  by  the  corning  of  the  long-looked-for 
Seventh. 

"  The  regiment  marched  to  the  White  House,  paid  a  salute  to  the 
President,  before  whom  they  passed  in  review,  then  went  directly  to 
their  quarters  at  Willard's,  Brown's,  and  the  National  Hotels.  At  the 
former  place  they  at  once  gathered  about  the  fountain  in  the  enclosed 
yard  to  wash.  While  thus  engaged,  they  were  addressed  by  Cassius  M. 
Clay  and  General  Lane,  to  whose  remarks  they  responded  with  their 
peculiar  cheer.  Then  came  dinner,  which  was  partaken  of  with  a  relish 
known  only  to  the  hungry. 

"  The  few  Secessionists  in  town  have  wilted  quite  awa) .  Few  can 
IDG  found,  and  those  few  are  anxiously  looking  toward  Virginia,  to  whose 
bosom  they  hasten.  They  can  be  spared.  There  is  no  news  in  town, 
and  there  is  no  need  of  any.  .Three  hours  ago  we  were  the  dullest, 
most  tired  people  in  the  world.  Now  every  man  is  on  the  alert.  The 
infusion  of  Massachusetts  and  New  York,  who,  shoulder  to  shoulder, 
came  through  the  enemy's  country  to  the  relief  of  the  national  capital, 
has  acted  like  a  cordial,  and  even  the  most  sluggish  are  now  enthusias 
tic.  We  feel  that  we  have  a  right  to  be  proud  of  New  York  and  her 
sister,  and  we  propose  to  maintain  our  rights,  in  this  respect  at  least. 

i'  Mr.  Lincoln  was  the  happiest-looking  man  in  town  as  the  regiment 
was  marching  by  him.  As  an  Illinois  man  remarked,  '  He  smiled  all 
over,'  and  he  certainly  gave  in  his  countenance  clear  expression  to  the 
feeling  of  relief  born  in  all  by  this  wished-for  arrival." 

In  a  similar  spirit,  on  the  day  following,  the  Washington 
correspondent  of  the  New  York  Commercial  Advertiser 
wrote  :  — 

u  The  New  York  Seventh,  your  own  National  Guard,  first  insured  the 
safety  of  the  city,  which  had  been  held  prior  to  their  arrival  by  a  force 
of  Regulars  and  Volunteers,  entirely  inadequate  to.the  defence  of  so  large 
an  area.  Had  the  Secessionists  been  able  to  concentrate  four  or  five 
thousand  men,  and  to  erect  batteries  on  Arlington  Heights,  commanding 
the  President's  house  and  the  departments  around  it,  they  might  have 
taken  possession  of  the  greater  portion  of  the  city  by  a  coup  de  main. 
8 


114  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

"  The  Massachusetts  Sixth  could  have  held  the  Capitol,  which  was 
jvell  provisioned,  and  in  a  state  of  defence,  and  the  other  public  build 
ings  might  have  been  defended,  but  the  troops  garrisoning  them  could 
not  have  prevented  '  raids  '  through  the  extended  city.  The  Secession 
ists  hoped  for  this  attack,  and  their  organs  at  Baltimore  and  Richmond 
invited  it. 

"  But  when  the  New  York  Seventh  inarched  up  Pennsylvania  Avenue, 
traitors  hung  their  heads,  and  the  doubters  became  strong  Union  men  at 
once." 

While  the  regiment  indulged  in  baths  and  clean  linen, 
in  hearty  meals  and  in  sleep,  in  sight-seeing  or  in  letter- 
writing,  Colonel  Lefferts,  who  had  been  at  once  sent  for  by 
President  Lincoln,  remained  in  consultation  with  him  for 
two  hours.  The  President  asked  a  great  many  questions  re 
garding  the  condition  of  Maryland,  whose  status  on  the  great 
subject  of  the  hour  was  still  doubtful,  and  regarding  also  the 
march  of  the  regiment.  Colonel  Lefferts  was  able  to  an 
nounce  that  he  had  brought  his  command  through  to  Wash 
ington  without  the  loss  of  a  man,  having  marched  twenty 
miles  the  day  before,  repairing  the  railroad  as  he  went. 
The  President  then  complimented  the  regiment,  and  said 
that  he  thanked  its  members  from  the  bottom  of  his  heart. 

Thence  Colonel  Lefferts  proceeded  to  head-quarters,  and 
reported  to  Lieutenant-General  Scott  for  duty.  On  express 
ing  his  regret  at  the  unexpected  delay  which  had  occurred 
at  Annapolis,  he  was  stopped  by  General  Scott,  who  said  in 
his  most  emphatic  tone,  "  You  have  made  a  fine  march,  sir  ; 
you  have  done  all  that  could  be  done,  and  you  have  my 
thanks."  The  Lieutenant-General  then  asked  Colonel  Lef 
ferts  what  his  regiment  required.  To  this  Colonel  Lefferts 
replied  :  "  Nothing  but  rations  ;  our  camp  equipage  will  soon 
be  up  from  Annapolis."  With  this  answer  the  command 
ing  general  seemed  pleased,  and  the  Colonel  thereupon 
withdrew. 

Perhaps  no  more  terse  or  just  view  of  the  situation  of 


RESULTS   OF   THE   MARCH.  115 

Washington  at  this  time  can  be  given  than  that  contained 
in  the  report  made  a  few  weeks  later  to  the  famous  Union 
Defence  Committee  *  of  New  York,  by  its  chairman,  Simeon 
Draper,  Esq.,  one  of  whose  sons  marched  with  the  Seventh, 
and  read  by  the  secretary,  Prosper  M.  Wetmore,  Esq.,  the 
first  colonel  of  the  same  regiment.  It  said  :  — 

"At  the  moment  of  their  appointment,  the  committee  found  a  civil 
war  raging ;  portions  of  the  army  and  navy  seriously  demoralized ; 
treason  working  its  will  upon  the  property  and  flag  of  the  country ; 
and  the  capital  of  the  nation,  with  all  its  treasures  of  archives  and 
history,  lying  almost  at  the  mercy  of  an  unscrupulous  assailant. 
Arsenals  had  been  pillaged  ;  public  vessels  had  been  surrendered  with 
out  a  shot  fired  in  their  defence  ;  bodies  of  troops  had  laid  down  their 
arms  in  dishonor ;  and  in  the  judgment  of  the  world,  serious  apprehen 
sions  were  entertained  that  an  unjustifiable  rebellion  might  become  a 

successful  revolution With  a  generous  frankness,  which  confers 

honor  upon  the  stations  which  they  fill,  the  chief  executive  officers 
of  the  national  government  and  the  distinguished  commanding  general 
of  the  army  have  been  pleased  to  say,  that  the  safety  of  the  national 
capital  and  the  preservation  of  the  archives  of  the  government,  at  a 
moment  when  both  were  seriously  menaced,  may  fairly  be  attributed  to 
the  prompt  and  efficient  action  of  the  State  and  city  of  New  York, 

*  This  Committee  was  organized  originally  as  follows :  — 

JOHN  A.  Dix,  Chairman,  CHARLES  H.  MARSHALL, 

SIMEON  DRAPER,  Vice- Chairman,  ROBERT  H.  McCuRDY, 

WILLIAM  M.  EVARTS,  Secretary,  MOSES  H.  GRINNELL, 

THEODORE  DEHON,  Treasurer,  ROYAL  PHELPS, 

MOSES  TAYLOR,  WILLIAM  E.  DODGE, 

RICHARD  M.  BLATCHFORD,  GREENE  C.  BRONSON, 

EDWARDS  PIERREPONT,  HAMILTON  FISH, 

ALEX.  T.  STEWART,  WILLIAM  F.  HAVEMEYER, 

SAMUEL  SLOAN,  CHARLES  H.  RUSSELL, 

JOHN  JACOB  ASTOR,  JR.,  JAMES  T.  BRADY, 

JOHN  J.  Cisco,  RUDOLPH  A.  WITTHAUS, 

JAMES  S.  WADSWORTH,  ABIEL  A.  Low, 

ISAAC  BELL,  PROSPER  M.  WETMORE. 

JAMES  BOOKMAN,  A.  C.  RICHARDS, 

THE  MAYOR  OF  THE  CITY  OF  NEW  YORK, 
THE  COMPTROLLER  OF  THE  CITY  OF  NEW  YORK, 
THE  PRESIDENT  OF  THE  BOARD  OF  ALDERMEN, 
THE  PRESIDENT  OF  THE  BOARD  OF  COUNCILMEN. 


116  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

united  with  the  vigorous  efforts  of  the  noble  Commonwealth  of  Massa 
chusetts,  devoted  to  the  same  patriotic  objects  " 

A  United  States  Senator  publicly  declared,  on  the  morn 
ing  of  April  14th  :  "  Unless  the  people  of  the  free  States  fill 
up  this  city  with  their  troops,  it  will  be  seized  by  the  Seces 
sionists."  The  Washington  correspondent  of  the  New  York 
Evening  Post  asserted,  the  same  day,  from  what  he  claimed 
to  be  high  authority,  in  reference  to  "  the  panic  that  ex 
ists  among  a  portion  of  our  citizens,"  that  an  "  arranged 
attack"  of  the  Secessionists  was  already  under  way,  and 
that  "  there  are  to-day  five  thousand  armed  Rebels  who  meet 
nightly  for  military  drill  within  a  few  miles  of  Washing 
ton,"  and  "  nearly  one  thousand  within  the  District,  en 
rolled  and  armed,  and  ready  at  the  command  of  their  of 
ficers  to  lead  an  attack  upon  the  government." 

The  ten  days  that  followed  at  Washington,  before  the 
arrival  of  the  Seventh,  were  distressing.  The  city  was  less 
like  the  proud  capital  of  a  powerful  nation  than  a  belea 
guered  citadel  in  fear  of  capture.  The  breaking  up  of  rail, 
mail,  and  wire  communication  with  the  North  prevented 
the  government  from  knowing  how  the  people  were  rallying 
to  its  support ;  officers  of  the  army  and  navy  dropped  daily, 
one  after  another,  into  the  enemy's  column  ;  the  latter  was 
believed  to  be  menacing  Washington,  while,  in  the  rear, 
Maryland  threw  itself  up  as  a  barrier  against  the  approach 
of  troops  across  its  soil  to  defend  the  capital.  So  sorely 
pressed,  so  sore  distressed,  was  the  government  at  this  junc 
ture,  that  it  stooped  to  parley  with  Maryland,  whose  Governor 
had  "  felt  it  his  duty  to  advise  the  President  of  the  United 
States  to  order  elsewhere  the  troops  off  Annapolis,  and  also 
that  no  more  be  sent  through  Maryland,  and  that  Lord 
Lyons  be  requested  to  act  as  mediator  between  the  parties, 
to  avoid  the  effusion  of  blood."  The  government  instructed 
Secretary  Scward  to  assure  Governor  Hicks  that  "  the  force 
now  sought  to  be  brought  through  Maryland  is  intended 


RESULTS    OF    THE   MARCH.  117 

for  nothing  but  the  defence  of  this  capital "  ;  and  furthermore 
that  "  the  national  highway  thus  selected  by  the  Lieutenant- 
General  has  been  chosen  by  him,  upon  consultation  with 
prominent  magistrates  and  citizens  of  Maryland,  as  the  one 
which,  while  a  route  is  absolutely  necessary,  is  further  re 
moved  from  the  populous  cities  of  the  State,  and  with  the 
expectation  that  it  would  therefore  be  the  least  objection 
able  one."  These  significant  diplomacies  show  how  neces 
sary  it  was  felt  to  be,  at  whatever  concessions,  to  get  "  the 
troops  off  Annapolis"  into  the  capital;  and  meanwhile, 
with  the  handful  of  Regulars  and  militia,  and  the  pioneer 
Massachusetts  Sixth  at  disposal,  the  citizens  themselves, 
including  the  government  officials,  organized  for  its  de 
fence,  and,  under  such  leaders  as  Clay  of  Kentucky  and 
Lane  of  Kansas,  patrolled  the  streets  by  night,  and  stood 
on  guard  at  the  bridges,  the  President's  house,  the  Capitol, 
the  Navy-yard,  and  the  departments.  As  for  Baltimore,  it 
was  in  the  hands  of  a  mob  which  tore  down  Union  flags 
and  proclaimed  itself  for  secession ;  and  the  interior  of 
Maryland  was  hardly  more  hopeful,  it  would  seem,  since 
troops  from  Harrisburg,  that  reached  Ashland,  Maryland, 
while  the  Seventh  was  approaching  Annapolis,  were  ordered 
back  by  the  War  Department,  and  made  to  pass  by  way  of 
Philadelphia  and  Chesapeake  Bay. 

On  the  day  the  Seventh  Regiment  arrived  at  Washington, 
the  New  York  papers  contained  the  news  brought  through 
from  Washington  the  previous  Tuesday  by  special  mes 
senger.  This  news  said  that  "  in  Washington  there  was 
great  alarm  felt  in  consequence  of  the  immense  difficulties 
of  getting  in  reinforcements,  and  the  apprehension  that 
the  city  would  be  attacked  while  it  was  comparatively  un 
defended.  There  were  not  more  than  from  four  to  five 
thousand  men  under  arms  for  the  defence  of  the  capital, 
and  of  these  there  were  only  a  few  hundred  Regulars. 
There  was  no  confidence  in  the  fidelity  of  the  District 


118  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

militia.  The  arrival  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  was  anx 
iously  prayed  for,  but  no  reinforcements  had  arrived  from 
any  quarter  after  Friday  evening,  when  the  Massachusetts 
regiment  arrived  from  Baltimore.  The  fear  of  famine  is 
superadded  to  the  dangers  of  war.  All  who  could  remove 
their  families  to  places  of  greater  safety  were  doing  so,  and 
were  it  not  for  the  almost  impossibility  of  getting  away, 
all  the  women,  children,  and  non-combatants  would  desert 
the  city. 

"  No  means  of  defence  are  neglected.  The  public  build 
ings  are  all  barricaded,  as  if  General  Scott  looked  to  the 
probability  of  having  to  dispute  the  possession  of  the  city 
point  by  point. 

"  There  was  nothing  positive  known  of  the  movements 
of  the  hostile  forces.  It  had  been  reported  that  Arlington 
Heights,  on  the  opposite  shore  of  the  Potomac,  were  held 
by  four  or  five  thousand  men,  under  command  of  Colonel 
Lee,  and  also  that  General  Beauregard  had  reached  that 
position  and  was  reconnoitring.  The  Heights  are  probably 
two  miles,  as  the  bird  flies,  from  the  White  House  and 
Treasury  building,  so  that  cannon  of  long  range  might 
from  there  destroy  the  city.  Another  statement  was  that 
the  Virginians  were  concentrated  below  Alexandria.  If 
so,  they  would  probably  cross  the  Potomac  down  there, 
and  inarch  up  to  the  Heights  commanding  the  Navy- 
yard,  which  could  easily  be  destroyed  from  there.  At 
all  events,  an  attack  on  Washington  was  at  any  moment 
imminent." 

The  next  day,  one  of  the  same  leading  papers  de 
clared  :  — 

"  The  capital  on  Tuesday  afternoon  was  in  peril  of  capture,  owing  to 
the  fact  that  the  expected  reinforcements  had  not  arrived  from  the  North 
in  consequence  of  the  interruption  of  the  passage  through  Maryland,  and 
there  is  an  earnest,  urgent  appeal  from  Washington  for  more  troops  and 
for  field-pieces.  There  is  not  a  moment  to  be  lost.  It  appears,  that,  in 


RESULTS    OF    THE   MARCH.  119 

addition  to  the  Virginia  troops  in  the  vicinity  of  Washington,  Jefferson 
Davis  and  Beauregard  are  at  Richmond  with  twenty-seven  thousand  men, 
and  for  all  we  know  to  the  contrary  may  now  be  in  possession  of  the 
Federal  capital. 

"  The  motive  of  the  obstruction  of  the  Northern  troops  at  Baltimore 
and  other  points  in  Maryland  is  now  fully  developed.  It  is  evident  that 
the  design  was  to  cause  such  delay  as  would  enable  the  invaders  to  be 
present  in  force  at  Washington  before  the  Federal  troops  could  reach  the 
scene  of  action  from  the  North.  It  is  all  a  question  of  time.  The  city 
has  no  natural  or  artificial  strength  to  enable  it  to  hold  out  against  supe 
rior  odds,  and  it  has  so  many  approaches  that  a  small  body  of  troops 
cannot  effectually  protect  it  long.  We  learn  that  the  long  bridge 
is  well  secured  by  General  Scott,  and  that  he  has  broken  down  the 
bridge  at  Georgetown ;  but  by  means  of  boats  or  rafts  it  is  possible 
for  troops  to  cross  the  Potomac  higher  up,  and,  perhaps,  even  below 
Washington. 

"  So  apprehensive  of  danger  was  the  Commander-in-Chief,  that  barri 
cades  were  constructed  before  the  windows  of  the  public  buildings,  earth 
works  were  thrown  up,  women  and  children,  and  even  men,  were  fleeing. 
All  things  indicated  an  approaching  conflict.  But  if  the  Southern  troops 
did  not  succeed  in  effecting  a  capture  yesterday,  they  will  be  met  to-day 
by  a  force  large  enough  to  keep  them  at  bay  till  fresh  troops  arrive  from 
the  North ;  and  there  is  a  consolation  in  the  case  of  Washington,  that, 
even  if  it  should  be  taken,  it  is  not  such  a  stronghold  as  can  be  retained 
against  superior  numbers,  and  the  ability  of  the  North  to  speedily  retake 
it  cannot  be  doubted." 

Such  were  the  circumstances  under  which  the  Seventh 
reached  Washington.  If  some  of  the  dangers  to  the  capital 
were,  in  that  hour  of  panic,  exaggerated,  enough  remained 
that  were  real.  But,  on  the  day  after  the  Seventh's  arrival, 
President  Lincoln  sent  word  to  Philadelphia  that  "  the 
Seventh  Regiment  and  the  Massachusetts  regiment  were 
now  in  Washington.  There  was  great  need  of  reinforce 
ments,  but  Washington  might  be  considered  safe  for  the 
country  and  the  Constitution." 

As  with  the  ultimate  safety  of  Washington,  so  with  the 
march  of  the  Seventh  to  its  rescue,  the  happy  issue  from 
peril  must  not  deceive  us  as  to  the  peril  that  actually  ex- 


120  HISTORY   OF  THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

isted.  "  I  saw  in  Washington,"  writes  the  Chaplain  of  the 
regiment,  Dr.  Weston,  "  and  there  heard  read,  a  mass  of 
captured  telegraphic  despatches,  in  which  was  disclosed  the 
plan  for  cutting  off  the  Seventh  by  destroying  the  bridges, 
removing  the  rails,  and  charging  with  cavalry  through  every 
cross-road  they  were  to  pass.  The  plan  was  admirably  con 
ceived,  and  I  afterwards  learned  in  Washington  why  it  was 
abandoned.  It  seems  the  colonel  of  the  body  of  the  enemy's 
horse  (some  five  hundred  strong)  had  been  sent  in  disguise 
to  Annapolis,  to  watch  our  movements.  He  was  there  on 
the  eve  of  our  march,  and  saw  the  rapid  formation  of  the 
troops  in  order  of  battle,  when  the  alarm  was  given  to 
which  I  have  before  alluded.  He  returned  and  reported  it 
was  inexpedient  to  attack.  This  information  I  had  direct 
from  a  Union  man,  who  had  fled  from  Maryland,  and  who 
received  it  from  a  friend,  a  member  of  the  enemy's  cavalry : 
so  the  information  was  sufficiently  authentic  and  direct. 
Hence  the  reported  destruction  of  the  Seventh,  from  the 
Charleston  papers.  They  reported  as  done  what  was  so 
well  planned  and  confidently  anticipated.  The  Rebels  may 
have  been  deterred,  too,  by  the  knowledge  of  masses  of 
troops  in  the  rear,  which  had  just  arrived  by  the  Baltic  and 
other  transports." 

The  rumors  of  the  slaughter  of  the  Seventh,  near  the 
Junction,  came  from  three  or  four  sources.  In  a  Charles 
ton  paper  of  the  time  in  question  appears,  with  display 
heads,  and  a  great  flourish  of  trumpets,  this  ferocious  de 
spatch  :  — 

"  By  Telegraph  !  —  Glorious  News  !  —  Three  times  Three  for  Mary 
land  !  —  The  crack  regiment  of  New  York,  the  Seventh,  met  and 
entirely  defeated  between  Annapolis  and  Marlboro'.  Just  as  we  were 
going  to  press  last  night,  a  despatch  was  received  by  General  Gwynn 
that  the  Seventh  Regiment  of  New  York,  in  their  attempt  to  proceed 
from  Annapolis  to  Washington,  were  met  and  cut  to  pieces  by  the  Mary- 
landers,  between  that  city  and  Marlboro',  Maryland." 


RESULTS   OF   THE  MARCH.  121 

And  in  a  Baltimore  paper  may  be  found  the  following 
memorable  paragraph :  — 

"  THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT.  — The  great  question  of  interest  now  is, 
whether  or  not  the  New  York  Seventh  Regiment  was  'cut  to  pieces' 
on  the  route  from  Annapolis  to  Washington,  as  alleged.  We  publish  all 
we  have  been  able  to  gather  on  the  subject ;  and  as  accounts  from  three 
or  four  various  sources  all  agree,  it  seems  there  should  be  truth  in  the 
report.  And  yet  it  is  hardly  reasonable.  The  regiment  is  near  a  thou 
sand  strong,  the  best  drilled  and  disciplined  troops  in  all  the  North,  and 
entered  Maryland  with  a  prospect  that  their  passage  would  be  disputed. 
It  is  hardly  to  be  supposed  that  they  were  unprepared  for  the  onset,  and 
still  more  improbable  that  they  should  be  defeated  and  '  cut  to  pieces  ' 
by  an  undisciplined  and  indifferently  armed  body  of  civilians.  And  then 
again,  the  engagement  probably  occurred  on  Sunday  or  Monday  last, 
and  it  is  strange  that  we  have  no  details  up  to  this  late  day.  We  hope, 
however,  that  it  is  true,  and  that  every  Northern  soldier  who  desecrates 
the  soil  of  a  Southern  State  will  meet  with  a  similar  fate." 

Into  what  stress  of  anxiety  and  grief  these  rumors, 
reaching  to  New  York,  plunged  the  friends  and  kin  of 
the  Seventh  Regiment,  may  easily  be  imagined.  An  offi 
cer's  wife  wrote  to  him  from  New  York,  on  the  morning  of 
April  26th :  "  We  were  all  awakened  with  a  start,  at  four 
o'clock  this  morning,  by  that  ominous  sound,  the  ringing  of 

the  door-bell There  was  a  terrible  report  about  here, 

on  Saturday  last,  the  day  after  you  started,  that  there  had 
been  a  fight  somewhere,  and  a  large  number  of  the  regi 
ment  killed The  ladies  of  New  York  are  doing 

their  part  nobly;  meetings  are  held  all  over  the  city  to 
form  societies  for  preparing  lint,  bandages,  clothing,  and 
everything  that  may  be  needed  in  case  of  war.  The  en 
thusiasm  here  about  the  Seventh  Regiment  exceeds  every 
thing.  I  think,  if  a  member  is  injured,  the  excitement 
will  surpass  all  bounds.  Its  name  is  in  every  mouth,  and 
every  one,  even  those  who  have  not  the  slightest  per 
sonal  connection  with  it,  seems  to  look  upon  each  mem 
ber  as  a  near  relative." 


122  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

On  the  day  after  the  Seventh's  arrival,  the  remainder  of 
Gunpowder  Bridge,  near  Baltimore,  was  destroyed,  and 
the  report  of  the  destruction  of  the  Bush  River  Bridge  was 
confirmed.  Three  days  after  its  arrival,  telegraphic  com 
munication  was  opened  for  the  first  time  in  nine  days 
direct  to  New  York ;  and  on  the  same  day  arrived  the 
Seventy-First  New  York  and  Sixth  Pennsylvania  Regiments, 
and  the  Fifth  and  the  remainder  of  the  Eighth  Massachusetts. 
The  telegram  from  Washington  which  announced  these 
welcome  reinforcements  added  :  — 

"  All  report  a  hard  journey  from  Annapolis,  the  greater  part  on  foot, 
with  a  scanty  stock  of  provisions. 

"  The  Seventy-First  marched  over  the  turnpike,  for  the  most  part,  near 
the  railroad,  to  the  Junction,  where  they  arrived  at  four  o'clock  on  Fri 
day  morning.  They  waited  there  for  the  cars  until  four  in  the  afternoon, 
and  were  just  seated  when  they  were  called  to  arms  and  formed  in  line 
of  battle.  Yells  and  shouts  were  heard  on  all  sides,  and  it  was  appre 
hended  that  they  had  been  surrounded.  After  three  hours'  delay  they 
returned  to  the  cars,  but  were  ordered  to  be  ready  during  the  night. 
Fires  were  seen  in  all  directions." 

Major-General  S.  R.  Curtis,  who,  as  has  been  seen,  ac 
companied  the  regiment  from  Annapolis,  soon  after  wrote 
to  a  friend  a  letter  which  was  given  to  the  papers,  and  in 
which  he  said  :  — 

"  I  have,  as  you  know,  seen  many  troops,  and  commanded  some  of  the 
best  in  our  army ;  but  I  confess  I  never  saw  the  peer  of  the  Seventh 
Regiment.     The  material  is  here  to  make  honorable  competition,  but  _ 
they  have  not  yet  become  successful  rivals. 

"The  Massachusetts  Eighth  deserve  great  credit  fon the  endurance, 
intelligence,  and  courage  they  manifested ;  and  General  Butler  is  a  man 
of  great  zeal,  energy,  and  intelligence ;  but  the  Seventh  New  York  is 
made  up  of  educated,  intelligent  gentlemen,  all  raised  in  ease  and 
luxury,  but  perfectly  resigned  to  the  exposures,  fatigues,  and  privations 
incident  to  the  hardest  service  I  ever  witnessed. 

"  I  know  this  regiment  gets  many  compliments,  but  I  declare  no  men 
ever  more  deserved  them.  The  good  order  and  great  strength  they 
evinced,  united  with  the  zeal  and  mechanical  skill  of  the  Massachusetts 


RESULTS    OF   THE   MARCH.  123 

regiment,  seemed  a.  triumphant  march  to  our  besieged  capital,  settled 
the  question  of  ils  safety,  and  stifled  the  insurrection  in  Maryland.  I 
was  urged  to  remain  in  Annapolis  to  assist  in  organizing  that  post,  but 
at  the  urgent  request  of  Colonel  Lefferts,  who  is  a  most  gallant  officer 
and  amiable  gentleman,  I  came  on  with  him,  and  am  still  recognized 
and  continue  to  do  some  service  as  a  member  of  his  staff. 

"  I,  of  course,  reported  myself  also  to  General  Scott  for  duty,  and  in 
my  various  positions  have  found  constant  employment  since  my  arrival ; 
sometimes  in  one  department  and  sometimes  in  another." 

High  praise  though  this  be,  it  is  not  overstrained,  when 
we  consider  that  the  regiment  was  a  body  of  militia,  not  of 
veterans,  —  city  youth  trained  to  civil  life,  unused  to  such 
hardships  as  the  march  furnished. 

We  have  seen  how  the  march  of  the  Seventh  thrilled 
the  North ;  it  only  remains  to  note  the  effect  the  same 
event  produced  at  the  South,  where  the  regiment  was 
hardly  less  known  and  honored. 

At  first  the  news  of  its  promptness  in  leading  New  York 
to  the  front  was  received  with  incredulity,  and  next  the 
cry  was  raised  that  "  the  Seventh  would  not  invade."  For 
example,  a  Baltimore  letter  to  a  New  York  paper  said :  — 

"  The  Baltimoreans  have  almost  as  great  a  pride  in  our  Seventh 
Regiment  as  New-Yorkers  have,  and  feel  assured  that  the  Seventh  will 
never  fight  against  them.  It  was  currently  reported  there  yesterday, 
that  the  officers  of  the  Seventh  had  said  that  they  volunteered  only  to  de 
fend  Washington,  and  would  never  march  into  either  Virginia  or  Maryland 
to  invade  these  States.  This  report  was  very  generally  believed,  though 
it  does  not  coincide  with  the  desires  expressed  both  at  New  York  and 
Philadelphia  by  members  of  the  Seventh,  to  march  through  Baltimore 
at  every  hazard,  and  to  avenge  the  Massachusetts  troops." 

A  telegram  from  Washington  carried  the  same  report, 
whereupon  the  New  York  News  said  :  — 

"TnK  NOBLE  SEVENTH  GOD  BLESS  THKM! — A -telegraphic  de 
spatch  has  said :  '  The  New  York  Seventh  Regiment  declare  they  will 
not  INVADE  ;  consequently  they  are  looked  upon  with  suspicion  by  the 
administration/ 


124  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

"  This  statement  has  been  strengthened  by  assurances  to  the  same 
effect,  given  in  public  and  private  correspondence  from  Washington. 
Whatever  the  administration  may  suspect  or  design  is  not  the  point  to 
be  considered  in  adverting  to  the  favorite  regiment  of  this  city,  always 
regarded  with  enthusiastic  and  just  pride  by  our  whole  population.  The 
intelligence,  refinement,  true  nationality,  and  honor  of  this  splendid 
body  of  citizen  soldiery  cannot  encourage  any  step  tending  to  national 
disgrace.  The  defence  of  the  Federal  capital  was  demanded,  and  they 
freely  and  promptly  responded  to  the  call.  That  service  they  have 
nobly  performed  thus  far,  and  it  will  be  continued  without  a  murmur. 
Should  the  hostile  invasion  of  Virginia  be  decided  upon,  we  cannot  ex 
pect  that  they  will  advance  against  their  countrymen  with  whom  a  few 
months  ago  they  were  on  terms  of  social  friendliness,  partaking  of  boun 
teous  and  earnest  hospitalities.  Against  the  homes  and  hearths  of  their 
recent  hosts  they  cannot  turn  the  reckless  and  indiscriminate  fire  that  is 
the  characteristic  of  relentless  and  devastating  war.  For  the  hastening 
of  those  peace  measures  which  every  good  man  must  desire,  the  general 
feeling  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  is  a  glorious  harbinger.  It  may  yet  be 
chronicled  that  our  brilliant  regiment  has  turned  the  tide  of  war,  not  by 
the  force  and  shock  of  arms,  but  by  the  moral  power  of  their  unques 
tioned  patriotism,  expressing  itself  within  the  domain  of  humanity  and 
reason." 

This  article  being  widely  copied,  Colonel  Lefferts  re 
ceived  a  letter  from  a  citizen  of  Hartford,  saying :  "  What 
we  see  in  the  public  prints  this  evening  of  the  course  and 
intentions  of  your  regiment  has  produced  a  glorious  thrill 

in    our  city Can    brother   go   to  war  with   brother, 

father  against  son,  over  the  negro  question  ?  I  hope  not. 
Then,  Colonel,  do  all  you  can  to  stop  such  an  unholy  war  as 
now  stares  us  in  the  face."  This  delusion,  however,  was 
soon  dispelled,  and  was  succeeded  by  an  intensity  of  hate 
which  was  compliment  enough  to  the  regiment,  by  showing 
that  its  action  was  as  annoying  to  the  enemies  of  the  Union 
as  it  had  been  inspiring  to  its  friends.  The  Montgomery 
(Alabama)  Mail,  after  alluding  to  the  fact  that  many  of 
(he  members  of  the  regiment  had  "  travelled  through  the 
South  on  missions  of  business  or  pleasure,  and  been  re 
ceived  as  brothers  and  treated  with  princely  hospitality  by 


RESULTS    OF   THE    MARCH.  125 

our  citizens,"  while  the  organization  had  been  "  the  guests 
of  Richmond,  Baltimore,  and  Washington,"  broke  into  this 
strain  of  rage  and  passion  :  — 

"  After  all  the  favors  and  honors  lavished  on  these  first-class  gentle 
men  and  merchant  soldiers  of  New  York  City,  they  were  the  first  to  re 
spond  to  the  call  of  a  perjured  President  and  his  perfidious  Secretary 
of  War,  and  to  march  in  *  hot  haste '  as  the  vanguard  of  Lincoln's 
army  of  mercenary  marauders  in  an  infamous  raid  upon  the  integrity 
and  the  peace  of  the  South.  We  feel  no  hesitancy  in  denouncing  the 
conduct  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  in  this  voluntary  invasion  of  the 
South,  with  arms  in  their  hands  and  oaths  upon  their  consciences  to  slay 
our  people  and  burn  our  property,  in  obedience  to  the  secret  orders  of  a 
malignant  and  perfidious  Cabinet,  as  base,  mean,  and  dishonorable,  not 
only  as  a  regiment,  but  as  individuals.  Let  the  South  remember  the 
Seventh  New  York  Regiment,  and  if  the  base  stuff  it  is  made  of  can 
stand  long  enough  in  the  field,  let  it  be  annihilated  by  the  avengers  of 

an  invaded  country Henceforth  and  foi  ever  let  the  Seventh  New 

York  Regiment  and  the  merchants  and  the  city  it  represents  be  re 
membered  by  every  man,  woman,  and  child  in  all  the  South.  Let  the 
finger  of  scorn  and  the  hisses  and  bitter  execrations  of  all  honest  men 
follow  each  and  every  member  of  this  disgraced  regiment  to  an  unhon- 
ored  grave.  Had  they  arose  to  defend  their  section,  their  State,  or 
their  city,  we  might  have  honored  them  as  patriots.  The  day  of  reck 
oning  will  come.  In  that  day  New  York  will  be  remembered,  and  the 
voice  of  the  South  shall  be  '  Come  out  of  her,  my  people.'"' 

Another  Southern  paper  discoursed  as  follows  :  — 

"  The  pleasing  illusions  which  have  been  indulged  concerning  the  exist 
ence  of  some  lingering  traits  of  gratitude  and  delicacy  in  the  hearts  of 
the  Seventh  Regiment  were  all  dispelled  by  the  paragraph  published 
yesterday.  A  general  feeling  of  satisfaction,  however,  is  expressed  that, 
now  we  know  them  in  their  true  colors,  they  will  form  part  of  the  force 
which  is  to  invade  Virginia.  They  will  receive,  beyond  a  doubt,  such 
attentions  as  such  men  deserve.  Probably  the  Seventh  Regiment  is  the 
best-drilled  regiment  in  the  Northern  Army ;  but  its  qualities  are  more 
adapted  to  show  than  use." 

A  Virginia  paper  of  the  same  date  announces  that 

u  All  the  souvenirs  from  the  New  York  Seventh  Regiment,  which 
are  now  in  Richmond,  have  been  draped  in  mourning.  Mayor  Mayo  of 


126  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

Richmond  has  returned  his  certificate  of  membership  given  him  by  the 
regiment,  and  requesting  them  to  destroy  any  mementos  of  friend 
ship  they  may  have  from  him." 

In  allusion  to  this  action,  and  to  the  general  braggadocio 
that  preceded  the  shock  of  arms,  the  New  York  Times  rather 
mockingly  said :  — 

" '  O  that  we  only  had  gentlemen  to  fight,'  was  the  lament  of  Dixie's 
land.  '  Give  us  foemen  worthy  of  our  steel,'  was  their  constant  petition. 
Quite  a  shout  of  delight  went  up,  we  remember,  from  the  press  of 
Mobile,  when  it  was  published  that '  the  New  York  Seventh '  had  gone 
to  the  war  ;  for  it  was  generally  known  that  it  was  rich  and  —  respecta 
ble.  And  yet  so  strange  and  contradictory  are  notions  among  the 
chivalry,  Virginia,  the  first  land  for  first  families,  did  not  share  in  this 
gratified  emotion.  Virginia  '  gentlemen  '  were  indignant  when  they 
learned  that  the  Seventh  had  marched  forth  under  the  stars  and 
stripes.  It  was  considered  an  offence  not  to  be  forgiven,  that  gentle 
men  should  '  take  up  arms  against  the  South.'  And  aristocratic  Rich 
mond  returned  all  the  souvenirs  it  held  of  our  gallant '  Seventh ! '  " 

Another  slip  from  the  Baltimore  American  will  perhaps 
amuse  the  reader  of  to-day,  and  serve  as  well  to  show  the 
importance  attached  to  the  march  of  the  Seventh  Regi 
ment  :  — 

"  A  «  CRACK  '  REGIMENT.  —  Colonel  Pettigrew  of  Charleston  is  rais 
ing  a  regiment  of  mounted  riflemen  for  service  in  Virginia.  It  is  com 
posed  wholly  of  picked  men,  each  member  being  required  to  furnish  his 
own  horse  and  accoutrements.  The  regiment  will  be  specially  pitted, 
it  is  said,  against  the  Seventh  of  New  York.  , 

But  now  we  must  forbear  from  further  citations  of  this 
nature,  and  return  to  the  narrative  proper,  which  left  the 
Seventh  Regiment  encamped  in  the  national  capital. 


THE   SEVENTH   IN    THE   CAPITOL. 


127 


CHAPTER    IX. 

THE  SEVENTH  IN  THE  CAPITOL. 

T  was  a  strange  scene,  and 
typical  of  the  historic 
epoch,  —  soldiery  sat  in  the 
seats  of  the  law-givers,  — 
inter  arma  silent  leges. 
When  the  tramp  of  the 
Seventh  Regiment  re 
sounded  through  the  Capi 
tol,  and  its  muskets  rang 
on  the  marble  floor,  when 
the  neat  gray  uniforms,  with 
spotless  belts  and  glitter 
ing  bayonets,  swarmed  into 
the  halls  of  debate,  the  sig 
nificance  of  this  new  drama 
struck  every  actor.  Hence 
forth  not  the  ballot,  but  the 
bullet. 

Colonel  Leflferts  estab 
lished  his  head-quarters  in  the  Speaker's  room  ;  his  staff 
occupied  the  committee-rooms ;  the  companies  were  as 
signed  to  the  floor,  the  galleries,  and  the  lobbies.  Each 
desk  below  and  sofa  above  found  its  occupant.  The  Cap 
itol  became  very  cheerful  and  lively,  but  withal  martial  and 
orderly.  Strong  guards  were  mounted  at  the  doors  within 
and  without,  and  drill,  discipline,  and  soldierly  deportment 
were  strictly  enforced.  Sentries  guarded  all  the  approaches, 


128  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

while  on  either  side  of  the  broad  steps  at  tiie  rear  of  the 
building,  which  was  the  entrance  in  chief  use,  a  howitzer 
was  mounted.  Strict  rules  and  "  strict  construction  "  were 
now  in  force  in  these  legislative  halls.*  The  square  east 
of  the  building  formed  a  convenient  drill-ground,  and  the 
drilling  was  constant ;  and  "  in  the  rests  between  our 
drills,"  wrote  Winthrop,  picturesquely,  "  we  lay  under  the 
young  shade  on  the  sweet  young  grass,  with  the  odors  of 
snowballs  and  horse-chestnut  blooms  drifting  to  us  with 
every  whiff  of  breeze." 

V  On  the  afternoon  of  the  26th  of  April,  1861,  the  regi 
ment  was  mustered  into  the  service  of  the  United  States 
for  the  term  of  thirty  days,  unless  sooner  discharged.  In 
one  sense,  the  main  purpose  of  the  regiment  had  already 
been  accomplished.  Its  mission  was  to  save  the  national 
capital  in  its  first  great  hour  of  peril.  That  had  been 
done,  and,  in  addition,  a  route  had  been  opened,  over  which 
regiment  after  regiment,  following  in  the  wake  of  the  Sev 
enth,  poured  into  Washington.  But  the  capital  was  still 
in  more  or  less  danger  of  attack  by  the  enemy,  and  the 
Seventh  accordingly  pledged  itself  freely  to  an  additional 
month's  service.  At  3  P.  M.,  the  regiment  having  assem 
bled  by  companies  in  the  Capitol  Square,  Major  (afterwards 
Major-General)  McDowell,  the  mustering  officer,  appeared 
in  full  uniform,  accompanied  by  President  Lincoln,  the  Sec 
retary  of  State,  the  Secretary  of  War,  and  many  distin 
guished  officials.  Line  was  formed,  and  the  regiment  was 
then  broken  into  column  by  companies.  As  Major  Mc- 

*  A  private  letter  from  a  member  of  the  Fifth  Company  says:  "  Last  evening 
our  party  were  on  duty  at  the  outer  gate,  where  two  aids  of  Major  McDowell  ap 
proached  and  attempted  to  pass  the  guard  after  tattoo.  We  challenged  them, 
when  they  approached  and  said  they  were  of  the  United  States  Army  and  aids  of 
Major  McDowell.  We  told  them  we  neither  knew  them  nor  Major  McDowell,  and 
that  they  could  not  pass.  They  said  they  were  entitled  to  pass  the  guard  at  all 
times.  A  call  was  made  for  the  sergeant,  who  took  them  to  the  guard-room, 
where  the  officer  of  the  day  released  them,  complimenting  us  for  our  strict  ad 
herence  to  duty.  Several  incidents  of  the  same  kind  have  occurred." 


THE    SEVENTH   IN   THE   CAPITOL.  129 

Dowell,  in  his .  soldierly  voice,  called  the  roll,  and  each 
man  answering  "  Here !  "  brought  his  piece  successively 
to  the  "  carry,"  the  "  order,"  and  the  "  parade  rest/'  he 
was  struck  by  their  intelligent  and  soldierly  appearance. 
"Sir,"  he  said  to  one  of  the  captains,  "you  have  a  com 
pany  of  officers  instead  of  soldiers."  Square  being  formed, 
Major  McDowell  said  :  "  In  accordance  with  a  special  ar 
rangement  made  in  your  case  with  the  Governor  of  New 
York,  you  are  now  mustered  into  the  service  of  the  United 
States  for  thirty  days,  unless  sooner  discharged.  The 
magistrate  will  administer  the  oath."  Hereupon,  to  use 
Winthrop's  language,  "  a  gentleman  en  mufti,  but  wearing 
a  military  cap,  with  an  oil-skin  cover,  was  revealed.  Until 
now  he  had  seemed  an  impassive  supernumerary.  But  he 
was  biding  his  time,  and,  with  due  respect  be  it  said, 
saving  his  wind,  and  now  in  a  stentorian  voice  he  ejacu 
lated,  '  The  following  is  the  oath  !  ' 

"  Per  se  this  remark  was  not  comic.  But  there  was 
something  in  the  dignitary's  manner  which  tickled  the  regi 
ment.  As  one  man  the  thousand  smiled,  and  immediately 
adopted  this  new  epigram  among  its  private  countersigns. 

"  But  the  good-natured  smile  passed  away  as  we  listened 
to  the  impressive  oath,  following  its  title.  We  raised  our 
right  hands,  and,  clause  by  clause,  repeated  the  solemn  ob 
ligation,  in  the  name  of.  God,  to  be  faithful  soldiers  of  our 
country 

"  We  were  thrilled  and  solemnized  by  the  stately  cere 
mony  of  the  oath.  This  again  was  most  dramatic ;  a  grand 
public  recognition  of  a  duty ;  a  reavowal  of  the  fundamental 
belief  that  our  system  was  worthy  of  the  support,  and  our 
government  of  the  confidence,  of  all  loyal  men.  And  there 
was  danger  in  the  middle  distance  of  our  view  into  the  fu 
ture,  —  danger  of  attack,  or  dangerous  duty  of  advance,  just 
enough  to  keep  any  trifler  from  feeling  that  his  pledge  was 
mere  holiday  business. 


130  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

"  So,  under  the  cloudless  blue  sky,  we  echoed  in  unison 
the  sentences  of  the  oath.  A  little  low  murmur  of  rattling 
arms,  shaken  with  the  hearty  utterance,  made  itself  heard 
in  the  pauses.  Then  the  band  crashed  in  magnificently. 

"  We  were  now  miserable  mercenaries,  serving  for  low 
pay  and  rough  rations." 

The  crowd  thronging  the  enclosure  set  up  a  great  shout 
as  the  Seventh  Regiment  became  United  States  soldiers,* 
The  muster-roll  will  be  found  on  page  140. 

The  Eighth  Massachusetts  arrived  at  Washington  soon 
after  the  National  Guard,  and  was  also  quartered  within  the 
Capitol,  under  the  dome  ;  while  the  Sixth  Massachusetts  was 
already  in  the  Senate  Chamber,  —  twenty-five  hundred  men 
there  in  all,  glowing  with  "  the  brotherhood  of  ardent  fellows 
first  in  the  field  and  earnest  in  the  cause."  On  the  27th  of 
April,  the  day  after  the  muster  in,  the  Seventh  Regiment 
invited  the  Eighth  to  the  best  collation  they  could  give,  in 
token  of  the  friendship  of  comrades  who  had  divided  the 
perils  and  sufferings  of  the  great  march.  As  the  Seventh 
had,  during  this  march,  earned  the  esteem  and  gratitude 
of  the  Eighth  by  "  sharing  the  crust,"  this  more  leisurely 
entertainment  increased  their  kindly  feelings ;  f  and  as  it 

*  A  newspaper  correspondent  says :  "  This  afternoon  the  Seventh  paraded  in 
grounds  before  the  eastern  portico  of  the  Capitol,  where  they  were  •  mustered 
in.'  Some  of  the  chivalry  had  hopes  that  they  would  not  take  the  oath  of  al 
legiance,  but  when,  after  Major  McDowell  had  read  it  twice,  that  all  might  under 
stand  it,  he  called  on  those  ready  to  enlist  to  raise  their  right  hands  and  to  repeat 
the  pledge,  every  right  arm  was  raised,  and  every  man  reverentially  swore  to  pro 
tect  and  defend  the  United  States.  It  was  a  solemn  sight,  and  one  which  bore 
glorious  testimony  that  the  Republic  is  safe.  Colonel  Lefferts  then  requested  that 
any  man  who  had  not  taken  the  oath  would  leave  the  ranks.  Not  a  man  moved." 

t  A  letter  from  the  Seventh  says:  "  Just  now,  as  I  passed  through  the  Rotunda, 
there  was  a  non-commissioned  officer  mounted  on  the  staircase  to  the  dome,  explain 
ing  to  the  Massachusetts  men,  who  were  drawn  up  in  order  around  the  Rotunda,  what 
our  men  had  done.  In  the  centre  were  piled  fifteen  kegs  of  lager-beer,  two  thou 
sand  boiled  eggs,  piles  of  cheese,  boxes  of  lemons  and  oranges,  smoked  beef,  pipes 
and  tobacco,  bread,  &c.,  and  a  squad  of  men  of  the  Seventh  had  begun  to  draw 
and  pass  around  the  provender.  It  was  hard  to  say  which  party  looked  the  more 
delighted,  the  donors  or  the  recipients." 


THE  SEVENTH  IN  THE  CAPITOL.          131 

so  happened  about  this  time  that  one  of  the  Massachu 
setts  line  officers  was  accidentally  wounded,  his  foot  being 
crushed,  the  Seventh  quietly  and  at  once  contributed  five 
hundred  dollars  by  subscription,  and  gave  it  to  the  sufferer. 
A  town  meeting  was  held  in  Beverly  on  the  15th  of  May, 
1861,  where  the  following  resolution  was  unanimously 
passed,  and  forwarded  to  the  Seventh  Regiment :  — 

"Resolved,  That  we  tender  to  the  far-famed  SEVENTH  REGIMENT 
OF  NEW  YORK  our  heartfelt  thanks  for  their  many  kindnesses  to  our 
Eighth  Massachusetts  Regiment,  and  especially  for  their  liberality 
towards  our  wounded  fellow-citizen,  Lieutenant  Moses  S.  Herrick." 

The  Eighth  Regiment,  at  their  meeting,  passed  the  follow 
ing  resolutions  on  the  same  subject,  of  which  a  neat  copy 
was  sent  to  Colonel  Lefferts  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  COMMANDERS  OF  COMPANIES, 
EIGHTH  REGIMENT  M.  V.  M.,  WASHINGTON,  April  29, 1861. 
To  COLONEL  LEFFERTS,   OFFICERS  AND   MEMBERS   OF  THE   NEW 
YORK  SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

At  a  meeting  of  this  regiment,  held  this  morning,  the  following  Pre 
amble  and  Resolutions  were  unanimously  adopted :  —  > 

Whereas,  The  trials  and  the  fortunes  of  war  have  brought  us  into 
close  intimacy  and  companionship  with  the  New  York  Seventh  Regi 
ment  [National  Guard],  therefore 

Resolved,  That  we  feel  it  a  duty  owing  not  only  to  them,  but  to  our 
own  hearts,  to  express,  so  far  as  may  be  in  our  power,  our  grateful 
obligations  to  them  for  their  many  favors. 

Resolved,  That  we  deeply  appreciate  the  hearty  welcome  extended  to 
us  on  landing  at  Annapolis,  and  their  kind  attention  after  the  fatigues 
of  transportation  and  hazardous  though  successful  service. 

Resolved,  That  they  have  done  all  in  their  power  to  lessen  the  just 
feelings  of  dissatisfaction  which  have  prevailed  throughout  the  regiment 
by  sharing  with  us  their  rations  and  their  little  conveniences,  and  by 
ever  being  the  first  to  offer  assistance. 

Resolved,  That  especially  are  our  thanks  due  to  the  noble  Seventh  for 
the  generous  entertainment  furnished  on  the  afternoon  of  Saturday, 
April  27th,  —  an  entertainment  so  spontaneous,  so  bounteous,  so  heartily 
appreciative  of  our  condition,  that  no  words  can  do  it  justice  or  do  jus 
tice  to  our  gratitude. 


132  HISTOEY   OF   THE    SEVENTH   EEGIMENT. 

Resolved,  That  in  one  other  and  very  especial  particular  does  their 
generosity  and  benevolence  touch  our  hearts.  We  refer  to  the  voluntary 
subscriptions  raised  among  them  for  the  benefit  of  one  of  our  officers 
accidentally  wounded. 

Resolved,  That  the  term  of  aspersion  so  often  used  in  connection  with 
the  volunteer  militia,  "  holiday  soldiery,"  has  been,  in  all  the  conduct 
of  the  regiment  to  which  we  are  so  much  indebted,  triumphantly  re 
futed,  and  that  it  will  hereafter  be  worthy  of  the  highest  fame,  —  fame 
that  will  ever  attach  to  the  name  of  the  "  Generous,  Gallant,  Glorious 
Seventh" 

Resolved,  That  wherever  the  Seventh  may  go  we  would  go,  where 
they  lodge  we  would  lodge,  and,  if  ever  their  colors  go  down  before  the 
hosts  of  the  enemy,  the  Eighth  of  Massachusetts  would  be  the  first  to 
avenge  their  fall  with  the  heart's  blood  of  every  man. 

KNOTT  V.  MARTIN,  Chairman. 

GEO.  T.  NEWHALL,  Secretary. 

A  fortnight  later,  the  following  letter  was  forwarded  to 
the  regiment  by  order  of  Lieutenant-General  Scott,  com 
manding  the  army :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  OF  THE  ARMY,  WASHINGTON,  D.  C., 

May  13,  1861. 

COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  Seventh  Regiment  N.  G.  of  N.  Y.  M. 
General  Scott  desires  the  following  extract  of  a  letter  from  his 
Excellency  Governor  Andrew  of  Massachusetts  may  be  communicated 
to  you  and  your  regiment :  "  A  contribution  of  stores  for  free  issue  to 
the  troops  has  been  forwarded.  Ice  contributed  by  Messrs.  Addison 
Gage  &  Co.,  and  the  provisions  by  the  proprietors  of  the  Faneuil  Hall 
Market."  After  indicating  the  distribution  to  be  made  of  stores,  occurs 
the  following  :  "  With  the  wish  of  the  contributors  that  the  New  York 
Seventh  should  be  remembered,  as  they  did  not  forget  the  Massachu 
setts  Eighth." 

Very  respectfully, 

SCHUYLER  HAMILTON, 

Lieutenant-  Colonel  and  Military  Secretary. 

Not  the  least  unwonted  scene  at  the  national  Capitol  was 
presented  on  the  Sunday  the  Seventh  spent  there.  The 
regiment  held  service  morning  and  evening.  The  pulpit 
was  the  Speaker's  desk,  covered  with  the  national  flag,  and 
with  the  Bible  resting  on  the  flag.  The  regiment  (except 


THE   SEVENTH  IN   THE   CAPITOL.  133 

the  two  hundred  on  guard)  occupied  the  floor  and  galleries, 
the  band  the  reporters'  gallery,  the  choir  of  twenty  ad 
mirable  voices,  picked  from  a  thousand,  the  Clerk's  circle 
below. 

"  Fellow-citizens  and  soldiers,"  the  Chaplain  said,  "  you  are  engaged 
in  making  material  for  future  historians,  perhaps  in  fulfilling  the  very 
prophecies  read  to  you  this  morning.  The  capital  is  echoing  to  the 
tread  of  armed  legions ;  but  yesterday,  on  this  classic  hill,  your  thou 
sand  hands  were  raised  to  Heaven,  and  your  thousand  voices  joined  in 

swearing  fidelity  to  the  Constitution  of  your  land Our  duty  is  to 

defend  our  human  rights,  our  country  and  firesides,  and  to  leave  the 
rest  with  God.  To  this  contest  you  have  solemnly  pledged  yourselves. 
The  eyes  of  the  whole  nation  are  upon  you.  Your  country  expects  yo« 
to  do  your  duty  both  as  warriors  and  heroic  endurers.  In  the  quality 
of  bravery  you  are  above  suspicion,  but  those  rare  virtues,  fortitude 
under  disease  and  privation,  and  exact  obedience  to  command,  are 
those  you  are  especially  called  upon  to  exercise.  He  who  cannot  obey 
cannot  command.  You  have  already  done  well,  with  the  gallant  aid  of 
our  companions,  those  brave  foremost  offerings  of  Massachusetts,  whose 
sons  once  saved  our  Constitution,  and  have  been  the  first  to  bleed  for  it 
again.  Let  the  Seventh  Regiment  so  demean  itself  that  hereafter  it 
shall  be  a  glory  to  have  been  with  it  in  this  campaign.  Napoleon  told 
his  men  that  their  greatest  reward  should  be  to  have  it  said,  '  There 
goes  one  of  the  army  of  Italy.'  You  may  be  equally  proud  to  hear  the 
words  :  '  There  goes  one  of  the  National  Guard.'  And  let  the  title  be 
no  misnomer.  Guard  well  the  Republic  ;  see  that  it  suffers  no  harm 
from  the  unnatural  children  who  have  turned  against  it." 

A  published  letter,  referring  to  the  morning  service, 
says :  — 

"  The  Seventh  is  fortunate  in  its  Chaplain,  —  the  Rev.  Dr.  Weston. 
formerly  rector  of  St.  John's  Church,  New  York,  a  man  of  talents,  re 
finement,  and  piety For  once  the  magnificently  elaborate  decora 
tions  of  the  interior  —  the  gilding,  painting,  enamel,  oak,  marble,  and 
velvet  —  blended  together  to  the  eye  in  the  dim,  religious  light  that  falls 
softly  from  the  translucent  ceiling,  produced  a  half-appropriate  effect. 
....  That  wonderful  Episcopal  service  1  Who,  of  whatever  sect  or 
creed,  has  not  acknowledged  its  beaut}  and  power  ?  Who  has  not  felt 
its  marvellous  comprehensiveness,  through  which  it  adapts  itself  to  the 
expression  of  every  human  want  ?  Thus,  to-day,  the  words  of  the  col- 


134  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

lect  — '  Defend  us,  thy  humble  servants,  in  all  assaults  of  our  enemies ; 
that  we,  surely  trusting  in  thy  defence,  may  not  fear  the  power  of  any 
adversaries '  —  had  a  meaning  never  felt  before.  The  prayer  4  for  the 
President,  and  all  others  in  authority,'  seemed  to  be  uttered  with  a 
reserved  intention  to  sternly  assist  in  the  fulfilment  of  the  boon  it  asked. 
But  the  following  passage  of  the  litany  was  impressive  above  all  the 
rest :  '  From  all  sedition,  privy  conspiracy,  and  rebellion,  good  Lord, 
deliver  us  ! '  " 

The  same  afternoon,  the  President  of  the  United  States, 
the  Secretary  of  State,  and  other  distinguished  gentlemen, 
visited  the  quarters  of  the  regiment,  and  were  enthusiasti 
cally  greeted.  President  Lincoln  •'  complimented  the  sol 
diers  on  their  fine  appearance  and  gentlemanly  bearing,  and 
thanked  them  for  the  promptness  with  which  they  had  an 
swered  the  call  of  the  country."  Secretary  Seward  followed 
in  a  similar  strain. 

When  the  Seventh  arrived  in  Washington,  Assistant  Ad 
jutant-General  Irvin  McDowell  had  command  of  the  capital, 
and  from  his  Order  No.  1  an  idea  may  be  formed  of  the 
general  run  of  duties  required  of  the  regiment :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  CAPITOL,  WASHINGTON,  D.  G., 

April  27,  1861. 
ORDERS  No.  1. 

I.  Roll-calls  will  be  as  follows- :  — 

Reveille,        ......     5  o'clock,  A.  M. 

Retreat, At  sunset. 

Tattoo, 10  o'clock,  p.  M. 

All  must  be  present  or  accounted  for  at  each  of  these  calls.  Ab 
sentees  without  authority  will  be  reported  to  Head-quarters. 

II.  Guard-mounting,  conducted  as  far  as  possible  according  to  regula 
tions,  will  be  at  half  past  seven  o'clock,  A.  M. 

There  will  be  two  police  guards  of  a  company,  each  stationed  at  the 
east  entrance  of  the  wings  of  the  Capitol.  During  the  tour  of  duty,  the 
members  of  the  guard  not  on  post  as  sentinels,  or  absent  for  some  neces 
sary  purpose  and  with  the  permission  of  the  officer  of  the  guard,  will 
remain  in  or  near  the  guard-room.  They  will  not  remove  their  equip 
ments,  but  hold  themselves  ready  at  all  times,  night  or  day,  to  take  their 
arms  instantly. 


THE   SEVENTH   IN   THE   CAPITOL.  135 

An  officer  of  the  day  will  be  detailed  from  the  field  officers  or  from 
the  senior  captains,  when  there  are  not  enough  of  the  former  to  afford 
sufficient  relief. 

Lieutenant  Collins,  Topographical  Engineers,  will  turn  off  the 
guard. 

III.  Police  call  will  be  sounded  immediately  after  reveille,  and  half 
an  hour  before  retreat. 

Commanders  of  regiments  and  companies  will  see  that  the  quarters 
occupied  by  their  men  are  thoroughly  cleaned  at  the  times  above  named. 
In  addition  to  this,  a  detail,  to  consist  of  the  guard  of  the  day  before, 
will  be  made  for  the  general  police  of  the  Capitol,  under  the  general 
direction  of  the  officer  of  the  day,  who  will  give  such  directions  to  the 
officers  of  the  police  as  will  insure  the  cleanliness  of  the  halls,  passages, 
&c.  of  the  entire  building.  Brooms,  mops,  &c.  will  be  furnished  the 
police,  and  will  be  receipted  for  by  the  officer  of  the  police. 

IV.  Loud  talking,  whistling,  singing,  scuffling,  or  running  will  not  be 
permitted  within  the  building. 

At  tattoo,  all  must  retire  to  their  quarters ;  and  at  taps,  which  will  be 
at  a  quarter  of  an  hour  after  tattoo,  the  gas  must  be  lowered  in  all  the 
quarters  and  halls,  and  quiet  must  prevail  throughout  the  building. 

Those  oi  -lie  District  of  Columbia  Volunteers  allowed  to  work  during 
the  day  will  not  be  required  to  attend  "  retreat,"  but  must  be  present  at 
"  tattoo."  Those  other  than  the  District  of  Columbia  Militia  who  are 
allowed  to  mess  outside  of  the  building  will  be  marched  to  and  from 
meals.  The  officer  in  charge  will  be  responsible  for  them  during  their 
absence,  that  they  remain  away  not  more  than  a  reasonable  time  for 
their  meals,  and  that  they  are  quiet  and  orderly. 

Passes  in  writing  may  be  given  by  commanders  of  companies  to  their 
men,  a  few  at  a  time,  to  be  absent  when  not  on  duty,  between  reveille 
and  retreat ;  and  in  very  special  cases,  when  countersigned  by  the  com 
manders  of  regiments,  they  may  be  extended  to  tattoo.  These  passes 
must  be  exhibited  to  the  guards. 

No  civilian  not  belonging  to  the  Capitol  will  be  allowed  within  it  or 
within  the  grounds  without  a  written  pass  from  Head-quarters,  unless  he- 
be  on  a  visit  to  one  of  the  regimental  commanders  within  the  building.  In 
the  latter  case  he  will  be  conducted  to  such  commander  by  one  of  the 
guard.  Officers  in  uniform  will  be  allowed  to  pass  freely.  Hucksters 
and  newsboys  will  be  allowed  a  place  near  the  entrance  to  the  grounds, 
which  they  must  not  go  beyond. 

So  far  as  neatness  or  soldierly  decorum  went,  there  was 
never,  of  course,  any  complaint  found  with  the  Seventh 


136  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

during  the  time  it  did  duty  at  the  Capitol.  For  the  rest, 
Colonel  Lefferts's  Order  No.  1  gives  a  clew  to  the  routine 
of  daily  work,  privilege,  and  restraint.  This  is  the 
order :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT  N.  Y.  S.  M., 
CAPITOL,  WASHINGTON,  D.  C.,  April  28, 1861. 

STANDING  ORDER  No.  1. 

For  the  government  of  the  regiment  so  long  as  quartered  in  the 
Capitol,  this  order  will  be  enforced. 

Commandants  of  companies  may  give  an  order  to  pass  the  guard  any 
time  between  reveille  and  six  o'clock,  p.  M.,  after  which  hour  the  pass 
must  be  countersigned  by  a  field  officer.  Such  leave  of  absence  will  not 
extend  beyond  two  hours,  without  express  permission  from  the  com 
mandant,  and  not  exceeding  ten  men  from  each  company  absent  at  one 
time. 

The  men  must  be  marched  to  their  meals  by  companies,  in  charge  of 
a  commissioned  officer,  the  files  counted  before  leaving  quarters,  and 
verified  on  return  of  the  company.  Those  absenting  themselves  with 
out  permission  must  be  reported  at  Head-quarters.  Companies  will  be 
allowed  one  hour  and  a  quarter  for  meals,  except  those  which  go  to  Wil- 
lard's  Hotel ;  they  will  be  allowed  one  hour  and  a  half. 

A  guard  of  one  file  from  each  company,  under  a  commissioned  officer, 
will  be  detailed  each  twelve  hours  (irrespective  of  the  regular  police 
guard  of  the  building),  and  posted  to  control  the  various  passages  to 
our  quarters,  and  no  persons  excepting  members  of  the  regiment  allowed 
to  enter  without  a  pass  from  a  field  officer. 

Commandants  are  particularly  instructed  to  see  their  men  collect 
their  accoutrements  and  muskets,  and  so  arrange  them  that  they  can  be 
used  upon  immediate  call,  without  confusion. 

There  will  be  morning  drills  and  afternoon  parades,  to  be  specified  in 
daily  orders. 

The  recruits  of  each  company  must  be  drilled  morning  and  afternoon 
by  one  of  their  company  officers,  and  when  in  fit  condition  will  &e  ad 
mitted  to  the  ranks. 

The  commandant  is  disposed  to  allow  the  largest  liberty  of  action  to 
the  men  consistent  with  duty  and  discipline,  but  all  orders  will  be  rigidly 
enforced,  and  delinquents  punished. 

All  orders  will  be  posted  upon  the  wall  behind  the  Speaker's  desk,  in 
the  Hall  of  Representatives,  to  which  reference  must  be  made. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS, 

Colonel  Commanding. 


THE  SEVENTH  IN  THE  CAPITOL.          137 

From  the  necessity  of  the  case,  meals  were  taken  at  the 
Washington  hotels.  The  companies  marched  punctually, 
and  with  precision,  thrice  a  day  for  this  purpose,  and  thus 
became  aware  of  the  presence  of  brother-soldiers  who  had 
now  come  to  reinforce  them  from  all  parts  of  the  North. 
The  Washington  people  invariably  greeted  these  appear 
ances  with  enthusiasm.* 

Thus,  in  fine  quarters,  with  hotel  fare  and  an  easy  rou 
tine  of  duties,  the  regiment  passed  its  time  with  pleasure. 
Each  morning,  after  the  "baths  and  basins"  so  much 
prized,  after  the  squad  drill  for  recruits,  and  the  breakfast, 
u  all  turn  out  to  witness  guard-mounting,  and  to  listen  to 
the  splendid  music  of  the  band  ;  and,  having  secured  avail 
able  positions,  quietly  smoke  their  pipes,  and  criticise  the 
movements  of  the  old  guard  and  the  new.  At  nine  o'clock 
a  company  drill  completes  the  military  duties  of  the  morn 
ing.  Passes  to  visit  the  town  are  now  in  great  demand. 
They  who  do  not  seek  or  obtain  them  sleep  upon  the  sofas, 
or  dream  in  the  shade  of  the  fine  trees  of  Capitol  Square, 
or  occupy  Congressional  chairs,  and  write  long  epistles  to 
friends  at  home,"  which  last  item  was  so  important,  that  it 
seems  Mr.  Van  Wyck  and  two  other  Congressmen  were 
kept  busy  all  day  franking.  Afternoon  drill  and  evening 
parade  must  come  in  to  fill  up  the  picture.  Theodore 
Winthrop  writes  :  — 

"  All  our  life  in  the  Capitol  was  most  dramatic  and  sensational. 
Before  it  was  fairly  light  in  the  dim  interior  of  the  Representatives' 

*  A  letter-writer  says :  "  Washington,  since  Ave  arrived  here,  has  become  a  dif 
ferent  place,  and  people  think  that  the  Secessionists  in  this  city  will  soon  be 
played  out,'  as  the  boys  say.  Our  appearance  has  inspired  the  people  with 
military  ardor.  Companies  of  Union  volunteers  are  being  organized,  the  stars  and 
stripes  wave  in  every  direction.  The  city  has  a  very  martial  appearance.  The 
people  here  think  that  we  are  immortal,  and  nothing  is  too  good  for  us.  When  we 
march  to  a  hotel  for  our  meals,  which  is  three  times  a  day,  in  fatigue  dress,  body- 
belts  only,  and  no  muskets,  the  streets,  for  the  mile  we  march,  are  crowded  with 

men,  women,  and  children,  cheering  and  waving  handkerchiefs I  occupy 

the  Honorable  John  A.  Stevens's  seat,  and  my  colleague  is  the  Honorable  Charley 
Howe.  We  sleep  in  the  chairs,  and  put  our  knapsacks  under  the  desk.  There  is 
the  roll  to  fall  in." 


138  HISTOKY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Chamber,  the  reveilles  of  the  different  regiments  came  rattling  through 
the  corridors.  Every  snorer's  trumpet  suddenly  paused.  The  impress 
ive  sound  of  the  hushed  breathing  of  a  thousand  sleepers,  marking  off 
the  fleet  moments  of  the  night,  gave  way  to  a  most  vociferous  uproar. 
The  boy  element  is  large  in  the  Seventh  Regiment.  Its  slang  dictionary 
is  peculiar  and  unabridged.  As  soon  as  we  woke,  the  pit  began  to  chaff  the 
galleries,  and  the  galleries  the  pit.  We  joked,  we  shouted,  we  sang,  we 
mounted  the  Speaker's  desk  and  made  speeches,  always  to  the  point ;  for 
if  any  but  a  wit  ventured  to  give  tongue,  he  was  coughed  down  without 
ceremony.  With  all  our  jollity  we  preserved  very  tolerable  decorum.  The 
regiment  is  assez  bicn  compose.  Many  of  its  privates  are  distinctly  gentle 
men  of  breeding  and  character.  The  tone  is  mainly  good,  and.  the  esprit 
de  corps  high.  If  the  Colonel  should  say,  '  Up,  boys,  and  at  'em  ! '  I  know 
that  the  Seventh  would  do  brilliantly  in  the  field.  I  speak  now  of  its 
behavior  in-doors.  This  certainly  did  it  credit.  Our  thousand  did  the 
Capitol  little  harm  that  a  corporal's  guard  of  Biddies,  with  mops  and 
tubs,  could  not  repair  in  a  forenoon's  campaign.  What  crypts  and  dens, 
caves  and  cellars,  there  are  under  that  great  structure  !  And  barrels  of 
flour  in  every  one  of  them  this  month  of  May,  1861.  It  was  infinitely 
picturesque  in  these  dim  vaults  by  night.  Sentries  were  posted  at  every 
turn.  Their  guns  gleamed  in  the  gaslight.  Sleepers  were  lying  in  their 
blankets  wherever  the  stones  were  softest.  Then  in  the  guard-room  the 
guard  were  waiting  their  turn." 

Reinforcements  soon  reached  the  regiment  to  the  number 
of  one  hundred  and  seventy-five  men,  under  command  of 
Captain  Viele.  They  consisted  of  members  of  the  regi 
ment  who  from  sickness,  absence,  or  other  cause,  did  not 
make  the  "  pioneer  march  "  the  week  before,  together  with 
recruits.  It  will  be  remembered  that,  immediately  on  ar 
riving  in  Philadelphia,  and  finding  the  direct  road  blocked 
to  Washington,  Colonel  Lefferts  telegraphed  in  cipher  to 
Mr.  W.  H.  Allen  of  New  York :  "  We  cannot  go  by  way 
of  Baltimore.  Will  go  to  Annapolis.  Require  a  good 
vessel  and  provisions  to  be  sent  there  immediately.  Go  with 
this  to  William  H.  Aspinwall  and  General  Sandford." 
A  similar  request  was  sent  by  Colonel  Lefferts,  as  we 
have  also  seen,  to  General  Sandford,  from  on  board  the 
steamer  Boston  at  Annapolis.  Although  there  was  doubt 


THE   SEVENTH   IN   THE   CAPITOL.  139 

about  the  position  of  the  regiment,  its  friends  promptly 
chartered  a  vessel  and  filled  it  with  supplies.*  Recruits 

*  The  following  letters  relating  to  this  matter  will  be  read  with  interest:  — 

»• 

I. 

NEW  YORK,  April  22, 1861. 

DEAR  COLONEL, —  Since  the  reception  of  your  telegram  on  Saturday,  2  p.  M., 
to  Mr.  Allen,  saying,  "  Require  a  good  vessel  and  provisions  there"  (Annapolis), 
General  Sandford  construed  your  telegram  to  mean  thus :  "  We  are  bound  to  An 
napolis,  and  doubtless  will  require  a  good  vessel  and  provisions  to  go  there."  When 
your  second  despatch  came,  saying  "  We  have  chartered  the  Boston,  and  try  to  go 
to  Washington,"  General  Sandford  said,  u  This  is  an  evident  countermand  of  the 
first  telegram."  I  do  not  understand  it  so.  Your  brother,  Mr.  Allen,  has,  like  me, 
felt  very  worried,  and  this  morning  (Saturday  afternoon  nothing  could  be  done, 
the  stores  being  all  closed)  I  went  to  see  Colonel  Hincken.  He  agreed  with  me 

that  you  wanted  provisions  and  a  vessel From  the  Quartermaster's  I  went 

to  the  Chamber  of  Commerce,  where  a  committee  happened  to  be  in  session.  I 
showed  them  your  despatch,  and  they  all  agreed  it  meant  you  wanted  a  boat  and 
provisions  at  Annapolis,  and  gave  me  a  check  for  $  2,500  towards  the  cause.  We 
are  in  darkness  here,  the  wires  north  of  Washington  being  all  down  since  Satur 
day.  We  are  intensely  anxious  about  you 

Respectfully,  A.  KEMP,  Paymaster. 

II. 

NEW  YORK,  April  25, 1861. 

DEAR  SIR,  —  Your  letter  per  special  messenger  reached  me  at  the  house  at  half 
past  four  this  morning.  Your  first  necessity  seems  to  be  for  provisions.  I  am  happy 
to  say  that  the  steamer  Daylight  left  here  at  two  o'clock  yesterday  afternoon  with 
ample  supplies  (for  a  time  at  least)  for  the  special  use  of  the  regiment.  She 
should  be  at  Annapolis  by  to-morrow  morning,  when,  if  not  resisted  on  the  way, 
you  will  doubtless  be  in  Washington.  But  I  suppose  when  troops  have  once 
passed  over  the  road,  arrangements  will  be  made  for  holding  it,  and  the  stores  can 
be  forwarded  with  little  delay.  Mr.  Kemp  has  worked  in  this  matter  most  ener 
getically,  and  taken  responsibilities  upon  himself  to  any  extent  required.  We 
feel  convinced,  however,  that  the  supplies  must  have  reached  you  shortly  after 

date  of  your  despatch Just  as  the  Daylight  was  ready  to  sail  yesterday, 

an  aid  of  General  Sandford  came  down  to  order  her  to  haul  out  in  the  stream  and 
wait  until  the  Parkersburg  could  accompany  her,  —  a  delay  of  some  hours  at  least. 
Mr.  Kemp  returned  his  compliments  to  the  General,  saying  he  meant  no  disrespect, 
that  this  was  a  private  affair,  every  hour  counted,  that  he  took  the  responsibility, 
and  the  steamer  should  sail  in  twenty  minutes;  and  she  did  sail  in  twenty  min 
utes The  Daylight  also  took  out  about  one  hundred  and  seventy-five  re 
cruits  for  the  regiment You  can  imagine  the  intense  anxiety  for  news, 

about  the  safety  and  whereabouts  of  the  Seventh  particularly.  We  have  about 
two  dozen  false  rumors  to  one  authentic  one.  One  of  the  worst  was  on  Saturday 
last,  to  the  effect  that  there  had  b'een  a  fight  somewhere  (a  very  loose  despatch), 
and  fifty  to  one  hundred  were  killed. 

Yours  truly,  WM.  H.  ALLEN. 


140  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

and  reinforcements  were  only  too  abundant.  Eighteen 
members  sailed  with  the  Eighth  Regiment,  and  on  the 
morning  of  the  24th  the  main  detachment,  one  hundred 
and  seventy-five  strong,  well  armed  and  equipped,  under 
command  of  Captain  Viele,  was  drawn  up  in  the  armory, 
and  marched  with  three  days'  rations  and  twenty  rounds  of 
ammunition  per  man.  Opportunity  being  given  by  Captain 
Viele  for  any  one  to  withdraw  who  felt  incompetent  to  per 
form  the  most  arduous  service,  no  foot  stirred,  and  the 
throng  of  spectators  applauded.  Their  line  of  march  was 
crowded,  and  the  old  scenes  of  the  waving  of  flags  and 
hats  and  handkerchiefs,  the  cheers,  the  multitude  of  vol 
unteer  escorts,  and  the  dense  crowds  on  the  wharf,  were 
repeated.  At  half  past  two,  P.  M.,  the  little  propeller  Day 
light  started  from  her  dock  with  these  reinforcements. 
She  carried  also  about  six  hundred  barrels  of  preserved 
meats,  bread,  vegetables,  and  stoves  and  supplies  of  all 
kinds  for  the  regiment,  the  donations  of  kinsmen,  friends, 
and  countrymen,  who  had  chartered  the  vessel,  and  now 
despatched  it  to  the  Seventh  at  Washington.  The  jour 
ney  was  performed  without  remarkable  incident,  and  at 
6,  p.  M.,  of  the  27th,  the  detachment  arrived  at  Washing 
ton  and  reported.  The  Daylight  then  went  to  Annapolis 
for  the  baggage  and  camp  and  garrison  equipage. 

The  Daylight  was  the  first  unarmed  vessel  from  the  Nor.th 
to  run  the  risk  of  the  batteries  which,  it  was  reported,  the 
Secessionists  were  preparing  along  the  Potomac.  The 
Union  Defence  Committee  of  New  York,  alluding  to  this 
achievement  in  their  Report  of  June  29,  1861,  says :  "  A 
detachment  of  two  hundred  men  of  this  (Seventh)  regi 
ment,  led  by  Captain  E.  C.  Viele  of  Colonel  LefTerts's  staff, 
was  the  first  military  body  which  opened  the  passage  and 
passed  to  the  city  of  Washington  by  the  Potomac  River. 
Much  credit  was  justly  accorded  to  that  officer  for  the 
skill,  spirit,  and  perseverance  evinced  by  him."  On  the 


THE   SEVENTH   IN   THE    CAPITOL.  141 

30th  of  April,  accordingly,  the  regiment  was  assembled 
for  evening  parade  at  half  past  four  o'clock,  P.  M.,  and 
the  detachments  which  had  reported  for  duty  since  the 
previous  muster  were,  at  five  o'clock,  mustered  into  the 
service  of  the  United  States,  and  their  names  were  added 
to  the  muster-roll. 

I  append  now,  therefore,  the  whole  roll  of  the  regiment 
for  the  campaign  of  1861,  adding,  for  the  sake  of  con 
venience,  the  subsequent  musters  of  April  30th  and  May 
14th  to  the  rolls  of  the  26th  of  April.  While  in  most  cases 
the  appearance  of  names  at  either  of  the  two  later  dates  in 
dicates  reporting  to  the  regiment  after  the  preceding  mus 
ter,  it  does  not  in  all  cases,  —  sickness  or  absence  on  duty 
operating,  in  some  instances,  to  postpone  the  muster  in. 
All  those  members  or  recruits  who  joined  it  on  or  after  the 
1st  of  May  were  mustered  under  the  date  of  the  14th. 

MUSTER-IN    ROLL 


SEVENTH   REGIMENT   (NATIONAL    GUARD)   N.   Y.   S.   M. 

Called  into  the  service  of  the  United  States  by  the  President  thereof,  from 
the  nineteenth  day  of  April,  1861,  for  the  term  of  thirty  days,  unless  sooner 
discharged.  Mustered  in  at  Washington,  on  the  twenty-sixth  day  of  April, 
1861,  by  Major  Irvin  McDowell,  U.  S.  A. 

Colonel 

MARSHALL  LEFFEKTS. 
l*        Lieutenant- Colonel.*  Major. 

ALEXA-NDEK  SHALER. 
Staff. 

J.  H.  Liebenau,  Adjutant. 

Egbert  L.  Viele',t  Capt.  of  Engineers.     Timothy  M.  Cheeseman.  Surgeon. 
Locke  W.  Winchester,  Quartermaster.    John  C.  Dalton,  Surgeon's  Mate. 

*  Lieutenant  Colonel  W.  A.  Pond,  an  able  and  accomplished  officer,  was  pre 
vented  by  sickness  from  marching  with  the  regiment,  and  from  the  same  cause  was 
forced,  soon  after  its  return,  to  resign,  to  the  great  regret  of  his  brother  officers. 

t  Mustered,  April  30,  with  the  Daylight  detachment,  as  elsewhere  recorded. 


142 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


Sullivan  H.  "Weston,  Chaplain.  John  A.  Baker,  Ordnance  Officer. 

Meredith  Rowland,  Asst.  Paymaster.      George  W.  Brainerd,^4ss£.  Quartermaster. 
William  Patten,  Commissary.  Charles  J.  McClenachan,  Military  Secy. 

Non-commissioned  Staff". 


Robert  C.  Rathbone,  Sergt.  Major. 
John  H.  Draper,  Ordnance  Sergt. 
Simon  C.  Scott,  Color-Bearer. 
Thomas  H.  Pierce,  " 
L.  L.  S.  Clearman,  Com.  Sergt. 


Oscar  Ryder,  R.  G.  Guide. 
James  J.  Morrison,  L.  G.  Guide. 
Isaac  W.  Dean,  Sergt.  Guard. 
Robert  M.  Weed,*  Quartermaster  Sergt. 


Band. 

Graham,  David,  Drum  Major. 
Graffula,  Claudius,  Band  Master. 
Common,  George,  Sergeant. 
Barrett  B.  George,  Corporal. 
Anderson,  John. 
Bader,  Frederick. 
Bader,  Henry. 
Capper,  Carlo. 
Connor,  Henry. 
Curley,  Thomas. 
Dubuy,  Oliver. 
Ferrier,  Charles. 
Fohs,  Joseph. 
Fohs,  Peter. 
Frieberg,  Frederick. 
Fritze,  Edward. 
Gebhart,  William. 
Gessner,  Joseph. 


Haas,  Frederick. 
Kendall,  George. 
Koswick,  William. 
Lindner,  Carl. 
Origbi,  Joseph. 
Plass,  Carl. 
Quintana,  Luciano. 
Rum  pier,  Adelbert. 
Salomons,  Mitchell. 
Spendler,  Otto. 
Spraidler,  Henry. 
Strobe,  Henry. 
Strobe,  John. 
Tette,  Louis. 
Underbill,  John. 
Werring,  John. 
Worm,  Louis. 


FIRST   COMPANY  (A). 

Captain  (see  below). 
\st  Lieutenant,  C.  H.  Meday.  2d  Lieutenant,  J.  L.  Harway. 


Sergeants. 
Hume,  W.  H. 
Robe,  H.  C. 
Bogert,  P.  I. 
Funston,  H.  M. 


Corporals. 
Wilson,  C.  S. 
Kitchen,  G.  H. 
Pierce,  F.  0. 


Drummers. 
Roland,  James.  S  tatter,  John. 

*  Reported  for  duty,  May  21. 


THE   SEVENTH  IN  THE   CAPITOL. 


143 


Allen,  J.  H. 
Archer,  A.  J. 
Aston,  F.  S. 
Barr,  S.  E. 
Belknap,  Augustus. 
Bensel,  J.  Warner. 
Bogert,  Henry. 
Boyce,  G.  W.  G. 
Brinckerhoff,  W.  E. 
Brown,  W.  H. 
Buchanan,  D.  D. 
Cable,  John  H. 
Clark,  Nathan. 
Cook,  G.  T. 
Cooper,  T.  W. 
Cooper,  W.  H. 
Davidge,  R.  C. 
Davis,  B.  F. 
Denslow,  W.  J.  W. 
Dieffendorff,  C.  P. 
Digges,  T.  M. 
Donaldson,  W,  J. 
Evans,  R.  D. 
Grout,  T.  J. 
Hamilton,  Robert. 
Hart,  F.  H. 
Hart,  0.  H. 
Haslasher,  George. 
Hays,  D.  L. 
Heubeser,  C.  E. 
Hewlett,  A.  C. 
Howe,  C.  H. ' 
Hyde,  E.  J. 
Imuren,  J.  H.,  Jr. 
Kingsland,  D.  C. 
Kirkland,  T.  S. 
LeFort,  George. 
Leggett,  S. 


Sheppard,  J.  K. 

Apellas,  Frederick. 
Bang,  Fred.  J. 


Privates. 

Lindeman,  H. 
Mcllvaine,  F.  E. 
McKervan,  J.  P. 
Merkle,  Augustus. 
Meday,  G.  K. 
Miller,  J.  H. 
Mott,  J.  W. 
Murray,  James. 
Orpen,  C.  N. 
Patterson,  Duke. 
Perry,  D.  A. 
Rawson,  E.  B. 
Reynolds,  C.  L. 
Saunders,  George  F. 
Seaver,  T.  A. 
Shields,  W.  H. 
Sibell,  J.  W. 
Simonson,  J.  H. 
Slocomb,  F.  D. 
Smith,  F.  A. 
Snyder,  Edward  L. 
Spelman,  W.  B. 
Spofford,  C.  H. 
Stagg,  H.  P. 
Sumner,  A.  C. 
Thwait,  S.  C.    ' 
Todd,  R.  S. 
Trenor,  E. 
Trenor,  H.  H. 
Trenor,  J.  J. 
Trenor,  J.  W. 
Trenor,  T.  F. 
Welcker,  John. 
Wilbur,  E.  R. 
Van  Ness,  George. 
Villiers,  Thomas. 
Waldron,  R.  S. 

Mustered  in  April  30,  1869. 
Corporals. 

Davidson,  William. 
Privates. 

Banomin,  Charles. 
Barnum,  Henry  C. 


144  HISTORY    OF   THE  SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

Briggs,  Charles  A.  Kurz,  William. 

Clark,  John  R.  Muarquaretz,  Charles. 

Cowperthwaite,  F.  H.  Rogers,  Joel  L. 

Darling,  John  E.  Sharp,  William  A. 

Eckel,  Edward  H.  Spring,  Edward  A. 

Forbes,  Edward.  Steinway,  Albert. 

Gompertz,  G.  S.  Swartz,  John  H. 

Griffith,  Wm.  N.  Villiplait,  Alfred  B. 

Hurnd,  G.  W.  Villiplait,  D'Hulesse. 

Kahler,  Frank.  Wheeler,  W.  P. 

Kelley,  Joseph  G.  Yort,  Henry. 

Mustered  in  May  14,  186^.    f 
Captain,  W.  P.  BEXSEL. 

Privates. 

Bell,  S.  M.  Plass,  R.  H. 

Clough,  Henry.  Ring,  G.  W. 

Ellis,  Henry.  Tugman,  C.  A. 

Humphreys,  W.  S.  Wetmore,  Aug.  J. 

Lober,  J.  H.  Whitman,  Fred. 

Lyon,  C.  H. 

i 

SECOND   COMPANY   (B). 

Captain,  EMMONS  CLARK. 

1st  Lieutenant,  Noah  L.  Farnham.  2d  Lieutenant,  Edward  Bernard. 

Serqeants.  Corporals. 

Palmer,  Peter  ( Orderly}.  Ware,  Richard  F. 

Dyer,  Henry  B.  Fonda,  Richard  D. 

Macfarland,  Joseph  E.  Bernard,  George  A. 

Miller,  David.  Janes,  Charles  H. 
Van  Norden,  Charles  S. 

Drummer,  Norwood,  Richard. 

Privates. 

Alden,  Henry  H.  Booth,  Orrin  F. 

Alden,  James  M.  Bristow,  Henry. 

Allison,  Richard.  Brower,  Bloomfield. 

Allison,  William  G.  Buchan,  Robert  C. 

Amerman,  Jacob  B.  Bucken,  William  T. 

Baker,  Edgar.  Burnett,  Gilbert  J. 

Bedford,  Evert  E.  Burtis,  A.  M. 

Bird,  John  H.  Chapman,  William  0. 

Bloomfield,  John  C.  Chase,  Amos  M.,  Jr. 

Board  man,  Daniel  F.  Codey,  Stephen  W. 


THE   SEVENTH   IN   THE    CAPITOL. 


145 


Codey,  William  H. 
Colton,  Walter. 
Com  stock,  J.  J.,  Jr. 
Curtis,  Albert  A. 
Darling,  William  Lee. 
Debenham,  George. 
Du  Barre,  James. 
Eadie,  William  R. 
Edwards,  William. 
Evans,  George  M. 
Eveleth,  Henry  P.,  Jr. 
Farnham,  William  T. 
Florence,  Sylvester. 
Garrison,  Abraham. 
Gordon,  Henry. 
Gould,  Eobert  S.,  Jr. 
Gregory,  Benjamin. 
Gregory,  Frank. 
Haddock,  W.  M. 
Hall,  Oscar. 
Halsey,  Norwood  A. 
Hatfield,  Abram,  Jr. 
Hatfield,  Robert  F. 
Barter,  Frederick  A. 
Havens,  Jonathan  N. 
Hayes,  Henry. 
Hill,  Charles  S. 
Holder,  Thomas  W.  K. 
King,  James  S. 
Lane,  Henry  R. 
Lawrence,  John. 
Kelty,  Eugene. 
Leonard,  Robert  W. 
Mather,  S.  Talmadge. 
Mather,  Thomas  D. 
McDonald,  Wm.  A. 
McGuire,  Charles  H. 
McKinley,  Robert. 
McManus,  Edward. 
Miller,  James  W. 
Miller,  Levi. 
Mix,  Eugene. 
Mix,  James  B. 
Mix,  William  H. 
Molineux,  Edward  L. 
10 


Nodine,  William. 
Oakey,  John. 
Overton,  Charles  P. 
Phalon,  Henry  L. 
Phipps,  Gurdon  S. 
Peixotto,  Moses  L.  M. 
Porter,  Henry  M. 
Postley,  De  Van. 
Powell,  James  W. 
Putnam,  Glenn. 
Quilliard,  Gulian  V. 
Roome,  James  W. 
Roome,  John. 
Russell,  James  F. 
Salisbury,  Richard  L. 
Savage,  Henry  F. 
Scoville,  William  H. 
See,  William  B. 
Selover,  George  W. 
Smith,  Granville  B. 
Smith,  James  A. 
Sterling,  Charles  K. 
Stevenson,  John. 
Struthers,  Stephen  R 
Tay,  Charles  H. 
Taylor,  Archibald. 
Taylor,  John  H. 
Thayer,  Lucius  M. 
Tuttle,  David  H. 
Tybring,  George  F.  E. 
Vanderbilt,  Isaac  S. 
Vandewater,  John  W. 
Vanduzer,  William  A. 
Ward,  Egbert. 
Ward,  Rodney  C. 
Way,  David  T. 
Webster,  Edward  B. 
Weir,  Julian  V. 
Whitfield,  Edwin. 
Wight,  George  J.  L. 
Williams,  Edgar. 
Williams,  Reginald  H. 
Williamson,  John,  Jr. 
Wilson,  James. 


146  HISTORY   OF  THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Mustered  in  April  30,  1861. 

Agens,  P.  G.  Morrison,  F.  S.,  Jr. 

Backus,  F.  Nichols,  L. 

Beard sley,  De  Witt.  Perkins,  H.  H. 

Cohen,  H.  Phyfe,  W.  S. 

Cooley,  J.  C.  Rusher,  C.  J. 

Dudley,  Lewis  G.  Shelley,  Charles  C. 

Findlay,  A.  Sturgis,  Edward. 

Foster,  Frederick.  Torrey,  James. 

Halsey,  H.  P.  Vandervoort,  J.  V.  W. 

Hatfield,  Townsend  L.  Vroom,  A.  F. 

Healy,  H.  G.  Weir,  J.  F. 
Milu,  D.  L. 

Mustered  in  May  14,  1861. 

Ames,  James  B.,  Jr.  Jones,  M.  L. 

Bulkley,  George  L.  Moulton,  Sylvester  T. 

Burtis,  W.  A.,  Jr.  Smith,  George  M. 

Gittens,  John  K.,  Jr.  Sniffen,  Francis  A. 

Gregory,  Henry  S.  Stratton,  E.  W. 


THIRD   COMPANY  (C). 

Captain,  JAMES  PRICE. 
1st  Lieutenant,  John  Wick  stead,  Jr.  2d  Lieutenant,  George  T.  Haws. 

Sergeants.  Corporals. 

Murray,  John  W.  (Orderly).  Tracy,  George  Douglass. 

Stephens,  Theo.  B.  Baily,  Wm.  P. 

Leggett,  Richard  L.  Crane,  Cyrus  R. 

Fitzgerald,  Louis.  Clinton,  De  Witt. 
Dore,  Joseph. 

Drummer,  Van  Raden,  Augustus. 

Privates. 

Abbott,  Charles  A.  Butler,  Geo.  B.,  Jr. 

Allen,  Henry.  Chapman,  Joseph  H. 

Bacon,  George.  Chesebrough,  Robt.  A. 

Banks,  Joseph  E.  Chesebrough,  Wm.  H. 

Barker,  Charles,  Jr.  Clinton,  Chas.  W. 

Barrett,  John.  Collins,  Geo.  S. 

Bend,  Wm.  B.  Conroy,  Thos.  L. 

Bogert,  Charles  L.  Conroy,  Wm.  F. 

Broderick,  Wm.  E.  Cook,  Vincent  L. 

Burdett,  Jacob.  Jr.  Crane,  Lorin  P. 


THE   SEVENTH   IN  THE   CAPITOL. 


147 


Elliott,  Theodore. 
Ferry,  Darius,  Jr. 
Fish,  Latham  A. 
Foster,  Clinton. 
Graham,  Joseph  F. 
Hale,  Wm.  D. 
Hickox,  Thomas  N. 
Holt,  Edmund  O. 
Hughes,  Charles. 
Hurst,  Fred.  K. 
Irving,  Thos.  R. 
Kennedy,  Charles, 
Lewis,  Curtis. 
Marshall,  Geo. 
McKibben,  Gilbert  H. 
Merle,  Chas.  F. 
Milligan,  Samuel  G. 
Mott,  Henry  H. 
Oakley,  Alfred. 
Oakley,  Nelson  H. 
Peterson,  Christian  G.  W. 
Platt,  William  C. 
Pollard,  Don  Alonzo. 
Portington,  Robert  C. 
Radcliffe,  Herman  G. 


Reeve,  Isaac  T. 
Robinson,  William  G. 
Sebert,  John. 
Sexton,  Samuel  J.  M. 
Simonson,  Joseph,  Jr. 
Smith,  Alexander  M.  C. 
Smith,  Eugene  B. 
Spooner,  Henry  T. 
St.  John,  Wm,  M. 
Tremaine,  Henry  E. 
Van  Houten,  Isaac. 
Van  Riper,  James. 
Van  Wyck,  Wm.  E. 
Warren,  James  R. 
Warren,  Joseph  C. 
Wellman,  Wm.  P. 
White,  Oliver  G. 
Whitney,  Wm.  M. 
Wicks,  George,  Jr. 
Wilson,  James  W. 
Wolfe,  Hudson  G. 
Wright,  David  F. 
Wright,  John  G. 
Yard,  Wesley  S. 


Mustered  in  April  30,  1861. 


Beers,  W.  H. 
Benedict,  Eugene  F. 
Browne,  Charles  L. 
Burton,  William  C. 
Clowes,  Theodore  F. 
Colgate,  Clinton  G. 
Doolittle,  James  K. 
Eastman,  Wm.  H. 
Gendar,  Thomas  V. 
Gulager,  Philip  D. 
Hoxie,  Wm.  E. 


Jordan,  Conrad  N. 
Lawrence,  George  P. 
Marshall,  Alexander. 
Owens,  Charles  B. 
Pollock,  William  J. 
Smith,  Wm.  H.  H. 
Tremaine,  Walter  R. 
Tuthill,  Samuel  B. 
Verplanck,  Wm.  A. 
Watkins,  William  L. 


Bomford,  George  N. 
Bunce,  Theo.  D. 
Colline,  Wm.  S. 


Mustered  in  May  14,  1861. 

Rader,  Louis  B. 
Regna,  George  W. 


148 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 


FOURTH  COMPANY  (D). 


Captain,  WILLIAM  H.  RIBLET. 
1st  Lieutenant,  William  Gurney.  2d  Lieutenant,  John  W.  Bogert. 

Corporals. 
Charles  E.  Bogert. 
Robert  H.  Eddy. 
Edward  R.  Younsr. 


Sergeants. 

Peter  M.  Myers  (Orderly). 
Edward  H.  Little. 
Jeremiah  V.  Meserole. 
Alfred  B.  Chapman. 
Henry  Everdell. 


James  Farnam. 


Drummer,  Henry  Eidman. 


Aymore,  J.  S. 
Belden,  Henry  C. 
Blauvelt,  J.  Harmon. 
Bruden,  Abner  H. 
Bruden,  Charles  E. 
Brundage,  Minthorne  T. 
Bunting,  Robert  S. 
Burns,  Thomas. 
Canfield,  Jesse  W. 
Carpenter,  Silas  S. 
Carter,  Herman  G. 
Chesebrough,  State. 
Crary,  Charles  H. 
Crocker,  George  A. 
Cust,  Stephen  B. 
Daugherty,  Horace  F. 
Davenport,  Charles  F. 
Diekerson.  George  A. 
Earle,  Edward. 
Everdell,  Francis. 
Ewen,  Austen  D. 
Ewen,  Edward  D. 
Ewen,  Norman 
Fairbanks,  Charles  M. 
Fay,  Logan. 
Ferry,  Edwin  N. 
Fielding,  William  T. 
Fiske,  William  E. 
Gaston,  William. 
Gautier,  Samuel. 


Privates. 


Hall,  Henry  M. 
Halsted,  Robert. 
Harrison,  Edmund  A. 
Haywood,  Melville. 
Hennessey,  John  F.,  Jr. 
Hickox,  Charles  R. 
Hollingshead,  William  M. 
Holly,  Henry  S. 
Honeywell,  Charles  R. 
Huntington,  Chas.  P. 
Husted,  Theodore  I. 
Hyde,  Melancthon  W. 
Jarvis,  John. 
Karr,  Frank  D. 
Kipp,  William  H. 
Lambert,  William. 
Lawrence,  Edward  L. 
Lawrence,  George  A. 
Lefferts,  John  C.* 
Little,  John  L. 
Mallon,  James  E. 
Manning,  Geo.  F. 
Marshall,  Alexander  S. 
Miller,  William  M. 
Mills-,  James. 
Moies,  John  E. 
Morse,  L.  W. 
Nichols,  William  L. 
Nugent,  Henry, 
Olssen,  Edward  J. 


*  On  detail  duty  at  Annapolis  till  after  musters. 


THE   SEVENTH  IN  THE   CAPITOL.  149 

Osborne,  Elisha  K.  Smith,  William  H. 

Outcalt,  Cornelius  B.  Snodgrass,  Archibald  A. 

Peacock,  Thomas  R.  Spaulding,  Zeph.  S. 

Bidden,  John  C.  Starr,  Samuel  H. 

Sanford,  Geo.  H.  Steele,  William  S. 

Sangster,  George.  Swords,  Charles  H. 

Smith,  Ernest  L.  Taylor,  Joseph  D. 

Smith,  Frank  K.  Weyman,  Edmund  H.,  Jr. 

Smith,  Milton.  Wood,  William  W. 

Smith,  Samuel  J.  Wright,  William  C. 

Mustered  in  April  30,  1861. 

Aikman,  Augustus  H.  Lefferts,  Marshall,  Jr. 

Balen,  Peter,  Jr.  Roome,  William  H. 

Burdick,  Charles.  Ryan,  James  E. 

Callamore,  Gilman.  Sharpe,  Samuel  C. 

Farmington,  Adam.  Sinclair,  Hyatt. 

Fay,  Patrick  H.  Steele,  Peter  B. 

Jarvis,  Edward  A.  Woodhouse,  Lorenzo  G. 

Mustered  in  May  14,  1861. 

Baggs,  John  W.  Merritt,  Abraham. 

Dubois,  John  S.  L.  Owen,  Mortimer  B. 

Edwin,  William  A.  Walz,  Ernest  L. 


FIFTH  COMPANY  (E). 

Captain,  WM.  A.  SPEAIGHT. 

1st  Lieutenant,  Christopher  Corley.          2d  Lieutenant,  James  Gaylor. 

Sergeants.  Corporals. 

Halsted,  Wm.  P.  (Orderly).  Seward,  Wm.  J. 

Sprole,  Wm.  T.  Braisted,  Peter  D. 

Eckel,  Frederick.  Wall,  William,  Jr. 

Earle,  Justus  D.  Barnes,  Seth  S. 
Miller,  John  P. 

Privates. 

Baker,  Thos.  E.  Filley,  F.  C. 

Barrett,  Geo.  P.  Fisher,  Philip  J. 

Benedict,  Chas.  A.  Fleet,  Augustine. 

Bissoll,  Geo.  W.  Foot,  Alfred. 

Bogardus,  Abraham.  Franklin,  J.  B. 

Brusle,  Wm.  A.  Frothingham,  Chas.  L. 

Burlew,  Henry.  Fuller,  Benj.  F. 

Cowles,  Wm.  Gardner,  Etienne  V. 

Eckel,  J.  Lewis.  Genin,  Erastus. 


150  HISTORY  OF  THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Gumbling,  Wm.  M.  Nixon,  Charles  L. 

Halsted,  Elbert  K.  Pangburn,  W.  H. 

Hardenberg,  Isaiah  D.  Reed,  Robert. 

Harward,  Wm.  E.  Rink,  Peter. 

Haynes,  Charles  O.  Romaine,  Wm.  H. 

Husted,  Gilbert  M.  Sadler,  Thomas. 

Hutchings,  Edward  W.  Sargeant,  James  A. 

Hyde,  Albert  W.  Scott,  William  A. 

Jauncey,  Joseph.  Seligman,  S. 

Kappner,  Ignave  G.  Silva,  John. 

Keefler/Billopp  R.  Stokeley,  Noah  B. 

Kellinger,  Samuel  M.  Stuart,  Wm. 

Kingsland,  Edward  A.  Sullivan,  Timothy  J. 

Kingsland,  William  H.  Thomas,  George  M. 

Lester,  David.  Timolatt,  Hippolytt  N. 

Lewis,  Geo.  T.,  Jr.  Tucker,  George. 

Magarr,  W.  W.  Vanderbilt,  De  Witt  C. 

Marten,  Benjamin  T.  Webb,  James  A. 

McDonald,  Joseph.  Wood,  John  Wardell. 

Mezzetti,  Geo.  Washington.  Wyckoff,  Albert  T. 

Moore,  Wm.  A.  Yeaton,  Samuel  C. 

Mustered  in  April  30,  1861. 

Benedict,  Erastus  C.  Noe,  A.  A. 

Bennett,  Warren  C.  Noe,  J.  Augustus. 

Corrie,  Frederick  H.  Prentiss,  Wm.  A. 

Hawkins,  John  U.  Price,  George  A. 

Hawley,  Frank  E.  Stern,  Louis. 

Hayden,  A.  L.  Sutherland,  James. 

Mapes,  Daniel  S.  Walclron,  Frederick  E. 

Mitchell,  Samuel  E.  L.  Waterbury,  W.  H. 

Mustered  in  May  14,  1861. 

Banks,  S.  A.  Perkins,  Frederick  W. 

Berlin,  Henry.  Reynolds,  James  E. 

Fox,  John  W.  Richards,  Daniel  W. 

Gaddis,  Theo.  F.  Rockfeller,  Charles  M. 

Holbrook,  Judson  W.  Stugers,  Edmund  N. 


SIXTH  COMPANY  (F). 
Captain,  BENJAMIN  M.  NEVERS,  JR. 
1st  Lieutenant,  Richard  F.  Halsted.         2e?  Lieutenant,  Joseph  B.  Young. 

Sergeants. 

Ford,  George  W.  (Orderly).  Brady,  Abner  S. 

Bartlett,  Charles  G.  Ruggles,  James  F. 


THE   SEVENTH  IN  THE   CAPITOL. 


151 


Corporals. 


Freeman,  William  B. 
Kemble,  Gouverneur,  Jr. 


Walke,  Charles. 


Drummer,  Hugh  McCormack. 


Privates. 


Annan,  Alexander. 
Bassett,  Frederick  B. 
Benkard,  James,  Jr. 
Bird,  Edward  0. 
Birmingham,  Erskine. 
Boyden,  George. 
Brinckerhoff,  Guidon  G. 
Browing,  Geo.  Leslie. 
Brown,  Charles  E. 
Brown,  Clarence  F. 
Cambreling,  Churchill  J. 
Carey,  Samuel. 
Carnes,  Louis  M. 
Chadwick,  Philip  R. 
Clarksen,  Floyd. 
Cogswell,  Andrew  K. 
Comstock,  George  S. 
Congdon,  Henry  M. 
Congdon,  Walter. 
Cooper,  Poinsett. 
Cowdrey,  Edward  A. 
Cowdrey,  Frank  H. 
Cozzens,  Edward. 
Cutting,  James  D.  W. 
Cuvillier,  Louis  L. 
Dick,  William  B. 
Dock,  Ritner. 
Douglas,  Archibald. 
Duryee,  Jacob. 
Ebaugh,  Theo.  O. 
Elsworth,  Arthur  M. 
Erving,  John. 
Falls,  DeWitt  C. 
Ferris,  Garwood  C. 
Foster,  John  A. 
Foster,  John  E. 
French,  John  W. 
Frost,  William  C. 
Gardner,  Charles  C. 


Halsted,  Edward  L. 
Hawes,  J.  H.  Hobart. 
Jaudon,  Peyton. 
Jenkins,  Elisha  J. 
Kimball,  Charles  A. 
King,  Rufus. 
Lamb,  Anthony  J. 
Laraque,  Edward. 
Lawrence,  Samuel  B. 
Marrinner,  David. 
McLaren,  John  J. 
McLaren,  Jos. 
Middlebrook,  George  L. 
Miller,  Lindley  H. 
Palmer,  Geo. 
Rankin,  Samuel  H.  L. 
Raymond,  James  P. 
Robbins,  Samuel  H. 
Rowe,  Thomas  P. 
Ryder,  Mitchell. 
Schuyler,  Philip,  Jr. 
Shaw,  Robert  G. 
Sheldon,  Alexander  E. 
Smedbury,  Charles  G. 
Still,  H.  A. 
Stoutenburgh,  W.  A. 
Sturgi?,  Edward  C. 
Sutton,  Charles  T. 
Taylor,  Henry. 
Teer,  Henry  T. 
Thomas,  Charles  W. 
Thomas,  George  F. 
Thorpe,  Gould  H. 
Tirripson,  John  W. 
Tomes,  Charles  H. 
Tucker,  Fang.  C. 
Ulshoeffer,  W.  Gracci. 
Van  Benschoten,  Edward  W. 
Vance,  William  H. 


152                   HIST  OK  Y   OF   THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Van  Duzcr,  Charles  F.  West,  Edward  W. 

Vermilye,  Washn.  E.,  Jr.  Weston,  Roswell. 

Vernon,  George  R.  Whiting,  William  T. 

Walduck,  David  M.  Wilson,  George  W. 

Watts,  George  B.  Winston,  F.  M. 

Weely,  James.  Winthrop,  William  W. 

Mustered  in  April  30,  1861. 

Bartow,  Wm.  J.  Roome,  William  P. 

Coggeshall,  George  H.  Ryckman,  John  W. 

Ford,  Charles  E.  Shaw,  William  G. 

Harrison,  Francis.  Wheeler,  F.  A. 

Hayes,  James  E.  White,  George  H. 

Lawrence,  W.  Hudson.  Young,  George  W. 

Mustered  in  May  14,  1861. 

Sergeant,  Catlin  W.  W.  Stuyvesant. 

Privates. 

Arnold,  Henry.  Tracy,  Frederick  A.  T. 

Bissell,  Aug.  H.  Tracy,  William  W. 

Edgar,  Geo.  P.  Stillwell,  Richard  H. 

Erhardt,  Joel  B.  Wood,  W.  Stanard. 


SEVENTH  COMPANY  (G). 

Captain  (see  below). 

1st  Lieutenant,  John  D.  Mori  arty. 

Sergeants,  Corporals. 

Winans,  Chas.  N.  (Orderly).  Bidwell,  H.  S. 

Henry,  E.  S.  Delano,  T.  E. 

Cameron,  John  L.  Bowerman,  R.  N. 

Hobbs,  Charles,  Jr.  Coper,  John  J. 

Ely,  George  W. 

Privates. 

Alcoke,  R.  S.  Callender,  W.  E. 

Annable,  T.  H.  Chatfield,  H.  S. 

Barker,  L.  E.  Collins,  W.  N". 

Barnett,  John  L.  Cortelyou,  J.  H. 

Beech,  C.  J.  Crane,  E.  S. 

Bennett,  A.  C.  W.  Crary,  B.  N. 

Bennett,  C.  F.  De  La  Mater,  Charles  H. 

Bogert,  A.  S.  Delano,  Jesse. 

Bootman,  R.  W.  Donaldson,  E. 

Britton,  A.  N.  Dunscomb,  J.  H. 

Britton,  E.  Easton,  B.C. 


THE   SEVENTH  IN   THE   CAPITOL.  153 

Fitch,  George  R.  Pinckney,  F.  H. 

Fowler,  D.  H.  Pomroy,  E.  H. 

Geisse,  W.  F.  Pontin,  H.  C. 

Gibson,  W.  H.  Putnam,  E.  T. 

Gibson,  R.  O.  Risily,  L.  S. 

Hall,  Charles.  Robinson,  J.  J. 

Hathaway,  T.  E.  Sherman,  S.  J. 

Holderge,  D.  M.  Shortland,  Thomas. 

Holmes,  G.  F.,  Jr.  Skilleen,  G.  W. 

Howell,  A.  J.  Smith,  R.  B. 

Hughes,  J.  B.  Steers,  F.  J. 

Ingersoll,  J.  H.  Stewart,  R.  K. 

Klanbey,  A.  St.  John,  W. 

Lauderback,  D.,  Jr.  Tallman,  Geo.  N. 

Law,  R.  H.  Thompson,  S.  W. 

Lent,  L.  H.  Tiffany,  Lyman. 

Matthews,  H.  E.  Trotter,  F.  E. 

McKesson,  J.,  Jr.  Turnbull,  G.  P. 

Montange,  W.  H.  Turner,  W.  M. 

Moon,  W.  S.,  Jr.  Van  Ness,  E. 

Moore,  Geo.  G.  Vandenvird,  H. 

O'Brien,  Fitz  James.  Vidal,  T.  C. 

Oliver,  Richard.  Wheelwright,  W.  G. 

Palmer,  J.  H.  Williamson,  C. 

Phipps,  John  M.  Winters,  H.  J. 

Mustered  in  April  30,  1861. 
Captain,  JOHN  MONROE. 

Privates. 

Avery,  John,  Jr.  Reddy,  James  I. 

Chevalier,  George.  Schermerhorn,  Louis. 

Coyne,  John  H.  Schermerhorn,  Wm.  H. 

Eddy,  Edward,  Jr,  Schram,  James. 

Hayden,  James.  Shaffer,  N.  D. 

Lent,  William  H.  Spencer,  William  P. 

Maury,  Geo.  A.  Steers,  A. 

McDonough,  Lewis.  Stone,  William  H. 

McJimsey,  Eugene.  Talmadge,  G.  Clinton. 

Oldershaw,  John.  Tiffany,  Henry  D. 

Oliver,  Frank  W.  Thorp,  Richard  A. 

Olmstead,  Wm.  N.  Van  Loan,  Benj.  F. 

Mustered  in  May  14,  1861. 

Anderson,  Smith  W.  Howe,  Oscar. 

Clegg,  Walter  O.  Hutchins,  Robert  A. 

Hartwell  Charles.  Tufts,  Wm.  Fuller. 


154 


HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


EIGHTH  COMPANY  (H). 
Captain,  HENRY  C.  SHUMWAY. 
1st  Lieutenant,  Chas.  B.  Bostwick.         2d  Lieutenant,  Chas.  B.  Babcock. 


Sergeants. 

Spurr,  John  (Orderly). 
Sears,  Samuel  W. 
Kittle,  Edward  C, 
Green,  Henry  D. 
Burger,  Wm.  L.  M. 

Hackenfort,  Jerry. 

Abrams,  James. 
Allen,  Charles  D. 
Allen,  William  B. 
Austen,  David  E. 
Baker,  John  M. 
Barbey,  Adolphus  H. 
Bassett,  William  H. 
Bearnes,  Joseph  H. 
Beaumont,  Charles  L. 
Beecher,  Henry  C. 
Brooks,  George  W. 
Brown,  Edward  S. 
Brown,  William  H. 
Brownell,  Silas  B. 
Burdett,  George  F. 
Burkhalter,  John  H. 
Burkhalter,  Stephen,  Jr. 
Burrage,  Robert  P. 
Casey,  James  S. 
Cozzens,  Thos.  N. 
Coles,  William  H.,  Jr. 
Denison,  Lyman. 
Eager,  Peter. 
Easton,  Alfred  H. 
Field,  Robert  M.,  Jr. 
Field,  Samuel  B. 
Ford,  Robert  O.  N. 
Foster,  Samuel  L, 
Gouge,  Edward  II. 
Grant,  Frank  H. 


Corporals. 

Hidenberg,  Gould  B. 
Mears,  Charles  E. 
Loder,  Benjamin,  Jr. 


Drummers. 


Privates. 


Susdorf,  Charles  Fred'k. 

Grant,  James  B. 
Hall,  Robert  L.  S. 
Herrick,  Elias  J. 
Hertzel,  George  W. 
Hillman,  John  S. 
Howell,  William  P. 
Hubbell,  Henry  W.,  Jr. 
Hull,  John  H." 
Johnson,  Ebenezer  R. 
Lamb,  Joseph. 
Lane,  I.  Remsen. 
Leveridge,  Albert  D.  W. 
Lewis,  Thompson. 
Mabee,  Foster  N. 
Macy,  Theodore  E. 
Marvine,  William  H. 
Mather,  Dewitt  Clinton. 
McMillan,  Alexander. 
Meeks,  Albert  V. 
Moller,  William  H. 
Moran,  Edward. 
Morgan,  John  W. 
Morrison,  James,  Jr. 
Morrison,  William  A. 
Muller,  Adrian  H.,  Jr. 
Mtirfey,  George  W. 
Murfey,  John  H. 
Neilson,  Edward  N.    • 
Newville,  C'larence  M. 
Owen,  William  H.,  Jr. 


THE   SEVENTH  IN  THE   CAPITOL. 


155 


Parraelee,  Lewis  C. 
Feet,  Frederick  T.,  Jr. 
Phillips,  Henry  J. 
Polhamus,  Henry  A. 
Pomeroy,  George  H. 
Robinson,  James  E. 
Rogers,  Edmund  P. 
Rollinson,  Samuel  0. 
Ryder,  Alfred  V. 
Smith,  Edwin  A. 


Arms,  Charles  E. 
Arrowsmith,  Gilbert  L. 
Blake,  Clarence  A. 
Buckley,  William  W. 
Davidson,  Albert. 
Flagg,  Montague. 
Gansvoort,  H.  S. 
Gifford,  Sanford  R. 
Green,  Frank  W. 
Half,  Edward  P. 
Hansman,  Charles  H. 
Hastings,  Eastburn. 
Hay,  Sidney. 
Jandon,  Frank. 
Jung,  Charles  T. 
Keese,  J.  Larry. 


Baker,  James  T. 
Cargill,  Frank. 
Champion,  Charles  S. 
Crochett,  John  A. 
Daskam,  James  W. 
Ellis,  William  J. 
Farrell,  William  R. 
Grant,  T   C. 
Harris,  James  D. 
Holden,  Edward  B. 
Hollister,  Henry  H. 
Hurlburt,  William  H. 


Smith,  George  W. 
Spear,  Adrian. 
Spear,  Percival  B. 
Stephenson,  Lewis  W. 
Trowbridge,  Joseph  A. 
Williams,  George  B. 
Willis,  John  O. 
Wood,  Alexander. 
Wood,  Thomas  H. 

Mustered  in  April  30,  1861. 

Levick,  James  N.  J. 
Mason,  Albert. 
McKee,  Charles. 
Patterson,  Wm.  G. 
Peet,  Charles  B. 
Rankin,  Benjamin. 
Reeve,  Charles. 
Rushton,  John  C. 
Smith,  L.  Bayard. 
Spencer,  Pierre  F. 
Talcott,  E.  N.  Kirk. 
Van  Pelt,  Samuel  K. 
Webber,  John  T. 
Welch,  Edward  A. 
Whitehouse,  Edward  U. 
Wilson,  Henry  S. 

Mustered  in  May  14,  1861. 

Jacobson,  William  C. 
Keene,  John  P. 
Lapsley,  Howard. 
Mansfield,  William  D. 
Moss,  Charles  D. 
Murray,  G.  W. 
Murray,  Henry  S. 
Oley,  John  H. 
Pease,  Walter  D. 
Pierce,  Charles  E. 
Richardson,  George  P. 
Rogers,  Philip  C. 


156  HISTORY   OF  THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

NINTH  COMPANY  (I). 

Captain, . 

1st  Lieut,  (commanding),  Henry  A.  Cragin.       2d  Lieut.,  Charles  C.  White. 

Sergeants. 

McBride,  Irwin  H.  (Orderly).  Keeler,  Edwin,  Jr. 

Fuller,  Andrew  J.  Moore,  Lawrence,  Jr. 

Privates. 

Barrie,  John.  Mingay,  Elwood  B. 

Bonnell,  Henry.  O'Beirne,  James  R. 

Childs,  Henry  A.  Osborne,  Charles  H. 

Concklin,  James  R.  Swezey,  Joseph  H.  S. 

Concklin,  John  P.,  Jr.  Sweet,  Milton  B. 

Corey,  Robert  P.  Warren,  Charles  J. 

Dean,  William  L.  White,  Charles  D. 

Edgar,  Samuel  P.  White,  George  W. 

Fitzpatrick,  Thomas  A.  Winthrop,  Theodore. 

Mack,  Valentine.  Van  Iderstein,  Peter,  Jr. 

MacLane,  Archibald.  Young,  David  A. 
Merriman,  Elijah  R. 

Mustered  in  May  14,  1861. 

Andrews,  G.  D.  Durnnell,  G.  II. 

Arthur,  H.  E.  Eddy,  Clinton. 

Avery,  H.  N.  Ellis,  Eranklin. 

Ball,  C.  J.  C.  Farmer,  George  E. 

Barker,  Joshua.  Fisher,  W.  H. 

Barney,  N.  C.  Fordred,  Drayson. 

Barrett,  A.  R.  Franklin,  Daniel  R. 

Brainard,  L.  W.,  Jr.  Giberson,  Samuel. 

Bramhall,  W.  L.  Goodrich,  L.  0. 

Bugle,  Benedict.  Graves,  E.  C. 

Bush,  Theodore  H.  Harmsted,  R.  M. 

Carman,  Richard.  Howell,  I.  R. 

Church,  E.  D.  King,  C.  E. 

Coan,  W.  B.  Knapp,  E.  S. 

Coombs,  Philip.  Law,  R.  J. 

Gumming,  A.  M.,  Jr.  Lockwood,  F.  A. 

Davis,  G.  D.,  Jr.  Lord,  J.  R. 

Dayton,  G.  E.  Manning,  John. 

Dayton,  W.  C.,  Jr.  Marlor,  George. 

Doughty,  G.  R.  /       Martin,  P.  H. 

Durbin,  J.  P.,  Jr.  Matthews,  James. 

Durfee,  Fenton.  McCrea,  J.  E. 


THE   SEVENTH   IN   THE   CAPITOL.  157 

McCrosson,  T.  A.  Seaman,  Wm. 

McDonald,  Alexander,  Jr.  Spaulding,  F.  S. 

McSpedon,  W.  A.  Speir,  A.  B. 

Merchant,  A.  T.  Stout,  T.  P. 

Mitchell,  R.  C.  Taylor,  H.  B. 

Moore,  J.  C.  Tufts,  J.  M. 

Nandaine,  G.  D.  Tyloff,  Ivan. 

O'Brien,  Oswin.  Tyng,  T.  M. 

Olney,  J.  E.  Van  Nest,  W.  L. 

Potter,  W.  S.  Wagner,  Charles  F. 

Rockwell,  Fenton.  Welles,  M.  G. 

Rutherford,  J.  H.  Wheeler,  William. 

Ryan,  W.  H.  White,  D.  W. 

Seaman,  J.  G  White,  James  G. 

TENTH   COMPANY  (K). 

Captain  (see  below). 
]st  Lieutenant,  E.  M.  Lemoyne.  2d  Lieutenant,  T.  B.  Bunting. 

Sergeants.  Corporals. 

Robinson,  John  E.  (Ordnance}.  Dana,  Samuel. 

Lord,  Thomas,  Jr.  (Orderly}.  Lentilhon,  Jos. 

Lawrence,  Jon.  Leland,  Francis  L. 
Schmidt,  Leopold 

Privates. 

Delafield,  Edward.  Peterson,  Oscar  L.,  Jr. 

DeRuyter,  Charles.  Pierson,  Henry,  Jr. 

D'Hervilly,  Edward.  Plume,  J.  Henry. 

Drake,  David.  Prentice,  C.  K. 

Drake,  Lawrence.  Ray,  James. 

Dubois,  C.  Richardson,  L.  R. 

Edey,  Henry.  Sands,  Henry. 

Hall,  R.  B.  Schenck,  C.  A. 

Harper,  John  T.  Seabury,  Robert  S. 

Holbrook,  H.  H.  Slasson,  Wm. 

Hollister,  E.  P.  Slossan,  J.  Lawrence. 

Lacombe,  Jas.  P.  Slossan,  J.  Stewart. 

Leggett,  F.  W.  Spies,  Francis. 

Leland,  Charles  H.  Staples,  Wright. 

Livingston,  Charles.  Wotherspoon,  H.  H. 

Ludovici,  Julius.  White,  John  C. 

Luqueer,  F.  T.,  Jr.  Wallace,  W.  S. 

Osborn,  C.  H.  Welles,  E.  B. 

Oakley,  W.  H.  Wright,  Edward. 

Pearsall,  T.  W.,  Jr.  Winslow,  John. 


158  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Mustered  in  April  30,  1861. 

Sergeant,  Van  Renssalaer,  S.  Corporal,  Bleecker,  James. 

Drummer,  Burlinghoff,  Charles  T. 

Privates. 

Beebe,  Edward.  Hargons,  P.  A. 

Bibby,  Alfred.  Harman,  Edward. 

Bleecker,  T.  B.  Hecksher,  John  E. 

Boell,  Charles  B.  Jones,  T.  F. 

Brown,  Lewis  M.  Niel,  J.  Delany. 

Gadsden,  Charles  A.  Taylor,  James  B. 

Gawtry,  H.  E.  Tompkins,  W.  W. 

Guion,  George.  Tucker,  John  A. 

Grant,  Wm.  E.  Voorhies,  Charles  H. 

Mustered  in  May  14,  1861. 
Captain,  GEORGE  C.  FARRAR. 

Privates. 

Chanler,  J.  W.  Lafarge,  A. 

Chauncey,  C.  W.  Macy,  C.  A.,  Jr. 

Costar,  Charles.  Manning,  J.  C. 

Costar,  John.  McAllister,  John. 

Coster,  Jeremiah.  McJimsey,  Robert  M. 

Gumming,  R.  L.  Milhan,  Edward  L. 

Curtis,  Samuel  B.  Miller,  Henry  W. 

Foote,  Edward.  Morris,  R.  L. 

Frieborn,  Thomas.  Morris,  Robert. 

Fuller,  H.  W.  Morse,  N.  B.,  Jr. 

Hart,  Lucius,  Jr.  Moss,  Nathan  F. 

Though  the  Daylight  was  chartered  by  friends  of  the 
regiment  in  New  York,  Colonel  Lefferts  made  efforts  to 
have  the  government  assume  the  expense.  It  has  already 
been  noted  that  he  wrote  to  this  effect  to  Governor  Morgan, 
at  Annapolis,  on  the  23d  of  April.  On  the  1st  of  May  he 
received  the  following  reply  :  — 

"  I  hasten  to  reply  to  your  letter  of  the  23d  instant,  written  at  An 
napolis,  Md.,  this  moment  at  hand,  requesting  me  to  write  to  you  at 
Washington. 

"  Approving  as  T  do  of  the  course  adopted  by  you  in  making  your  way 
to  Washington  with  the  gallant  regiment  under  your  command,  I  have, 
in  relation  to  the  question  of  funds  expended  on  your  journey  to  Wash- 


THE   SEVENTH  IN   THE   CAPITOL. 

ington,  to  ask  you  to  represent  the  case  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  who,  I 
do  not  doubt,  will  give  directions  for  the  immediate  reimbursement  of 
the  sum  thus  expended. 

u  You  will  without  delay  advise  me  of  the  result  of  such  application 
to  the  Secretary  of  War. 

"  I  am,  &c.,  &c., 

"  E.  D.  MORGAN." 

To  this  letter,  on  the  same  day.  Colonel  Lefferts  replied 
as  follows :  — 

"  I  made  application  at  the  proper  department  to  have  the  charter- 
party  of  a  vessel  just  arrived  with  stores  for  us  assumed  by  them, 
which  I  urged  upon  the  ground  that  she  also  brought  troops.  They 
informed  me  that  no  doubt,  at  a  future  day,  we  would  be  refunded  the 
outlay,  but  they  would  not  pay  just  now.  This  vessel  and  stores  were 
sent  by  my  directions  when  I  expected  to  be  hemmed  in,  perhaps  for 
weeks.  This  vessel  and  cargo  cost  us  $  4,000  charter-party,  and 
$  8,000  for  stores ;  there  was  so  much  confusion  consequent  upon  the 
hurried  manner  in  which  troops  have  been  sent  forward,  that  it  was 
absolutely  necessary  to  make  outlays  upon  my  own  responsibility,  or  lie 
idly  waiting  for  others  to  move.  In  order  to  save  the  government  from 
all  trouble  for  us,  and  when  others  actually  required  more  attention,  I 
said  I  would  commute  for  my  rations,  and  take  care  of  ourselves.  This 
costs  us  fifty  cents  per  man,  over  and  above  the  amount  received  for 
rations ;  it  seems  hard  that  I  must  call  upon  my  men  for  money  in  such 
a  case. 

"  I  now  leave  the  matter  to  be  disposed  of  as  you  may  deem  best." 

But  the  Union  Defence  Committee  promptly  came  forward 
and  assumed  the  entire  outlay  ;  and  the  following  charac 
teristic  letter  on  the  subject  will  give  some  idea  of  the  gen 
eral  fervor  of  enthusiasm  which  existed  regarding  the  regi 
ment  :  — 

"  MY  DEAR  COLONEL,  —  Ere  this  reaches  you,  I  presume  you  will 
have  received  my  telegram  saying  the  Union  Defence  Committee  had 
given  me  a  check  for  the  full  amount  of  the  charter  and  the  entire  in 
voice  of  goods  sent  you.  I  think  old  Kemp  deserves  well  of  his  regi 
ment.  He  has  worked  night  and  day  to  bring  the  result  of  his  expedi 
tion  to  a  successful  issue,  and  to-day. his  exertions  are  crowned  with 
success  ;  he  has  his  money,  and  the  Daylight  is  home,  safe  and  sound.  I 
won't  annoy  you  with  the  detail  of  how  I  have  been  bamboozled  about 


160  HISTOKY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

from  one  committee  and  sub-committee  to  another.  These  committees 
have  beQn  perfectly  overwhelmed  with  work  themselves,  often  till  one 
and  two  in  the  morning  ;  but  I  started  to  succeed  and  have.  God  bless 
my  dear  boys  1  If  they  only  knew  how,  for  days  and  days  without  news, 
the  true,  full  heart  of  New  York  has  beat  for  them,  they  and  yourself 
would  be  proud  of  that  magic  figure  seven.  It  pained  me  greatly  to  see 
in  the  papers  that  the  Richmond  Grays,  Captain  Elliot,  were  at  Norfolk. 
When  he  was  here,  and  we  all  swore  devotedness  to  the  Union,  I 
presumed  the  flag  borne  in  his  command  represented  the  flag  of  the 
Union.  I  little  dreamed  he  would  feel  it  his  duty  to  fight  under  any 

other 

"  A.  KEMP,  Paymaster  Seventh  Regiment" 

The  time  had  now  come  for  the  Seventh  Regiment  to 
take  another  step.  As  soon  as  the  camp  equipage  left  at 
Annapolis  had  been  brought  on,  Colonel  Lefferts  prepared 
to  go  into  camp.  The  regiment  received  the  intelligence 
with  joy.  Neither  their  "  barracks  "  nor  their  fare  suited 
them  as  would  the  soldier's  ration  and  the  soldier's  shelter. 
Their  round  of  duty,  too,  had  become  monotonous.  The 
following  is  a  specimen  of  it,  chosen  at  random  from  a  mass 
of  regimental  orders.  It  is  General  Order  No.  9,  dated 
April  28,  1861:- 

"  Company  C,  Captain  Price,  and  Company  E,  Captain  Speaight,  are 
detailed  for  guard  duty  for  the  29th  inst.  Guard-mounting  at  half  past 
seven  o'clock,  A.  M.  Adjutants'  call  at  twenty  minutes  past  seven,  A.  M. 

"  The  guard  for  the  protection  of  our  own  quarters  will  report  in  the 
hall  by  the  Colonel's  quarters  at  seven,  A.  M.  Lieutenant  Harvey  is  hereby 
detailed  as  officer  of  this  guard,  and  a  sergeant  of  the  First  Company,  to 
gether  with  a  corporal,  a  s  non-commissioned  officers  of  the  guard. 

"  Commandants  will  drill  their  companies  as  well  as  recruits  during 
the  forenoon.  Evening  parade  at  half  past  four  o'clock,  p.  M.,  full  uni 
form,  with  knapsacks. 

"  The  Park  fronting  the  Capitol  is  hereby  designated  as  Regimental 
Parade-Ground  until  further  notice.  First  sergeants'  call  for  consoli 
dated  report  at  six  o'clock,  A.  M." 

Troops  were  now  pouring  into  Washington  as  the  Sev 
enth  marched  out  from  the  thick  of  the  population  again  in 


THE   SEVENTH  IN   THE   CAPITOL.  161 

the  van,  as  it  were,  to  the  picket-lines.  It  gladly  surren 
dered  its  luxurious  quarters  to  later  comers. 

Major  Irvin  McDowell  was  in  command  of  the  Capitol 
building  when  the  Seventh  appeared  for  the  relief  of  Wash 
ington.  But  soon  after,  —  namely,  April  28,  —  Colonel  (af 
terwards  Major-General)  Mansfield,  U.  S.  A.,  was  assigned 
to  the  command  of  the  Department  of  Washington,  and  it 
was  to  him,  accordingly,  that  Colonel  Leiferts  addressed  his 
proposition  to  go  into  camp.  The  terrain  selected,  or 
rather  desired,  is  one  of  the  finest  for  camp  purposes 
around  the  city,  and  was  then  known  as  Dr.  Stone's  farm. 
Its  site  was  on  Meridian  Hill,  two  miles  due  north  from 
Willard's,  on  the  Harper's  Ferry  Road,  —  a  farm  of  forty 
acres,  with  its  fine  old.  mansion  on  an  elevated,  undulating 
terrace,  commanding  the  plain  of  Washington,  and  having 
a  full  view  of  the  city  and  the  Potomac  broadening  beyond. 
Its  position  and  its  fine  grounds,  covered  with  grand  old 
ivy-circled  oaks,  had  made  it  the  favorite  residence  of  sev 
eral  Presidents  from  the  time  of  Madison,  who  built  the 
villa.  A  broad  parade-ground  was  available  on  the  spot 
most  suitable  for  the  camp. 

But  this  desirable  ground,  though  offered  to  the  regiment 
by  the  proprietors,  was  not  secured  without  difficulty.  On 
the  30th,  Colonel  Lefferts  informed  Colonel  Mansfield  that 
the  regimental  camp  equipage  had  just  been  received,  add 
ing  :  "I  visited  in  person  the  grounds  of  Mr.  Stone,  sug 
gested  by  Lieutenant-General  Scott,  as  the  place  desig 
nated  for  an  encampment,  and  am  prepared  to  proceed  and 
occupy  the  ground  upon  receipt  of  an  order  from  you  to 
that  effect."  This  letter  was  promptly  returned,  with  the 
following  indorsement  in  Colonel  Mansfield's  hand : 
"  The  General  -  in  -  Chief  prefers  that  this  regiment  be 
camped  at  Fletcher's  Kalorama,  in  rear  of  his  house, 
represented  to  be  a  fine  camping-ground.  It  is  out  on 
West  20th  Street.  Go  and  examine  the  premises,  and,  if 
11 


162  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

suitable,  go  into  camp  there."  There  was  no  comparison 
between  the  two  places,  and  resort  was  had  to  the  rep 
resentations  and  influence  of  good  judges.  These  were 
successful,  and  Colonel  Lefferts  received  from  Colonel 
Mansfield  authority  "  to  encamp  his  regiment  on  Meridian 
Hill." 

On  May  day  (suggesting  many  a  witticism  regarding 
"  May  moving  ")  the  regiment  assembled  at  evening  parade 
at  4  P.  M.,  with  knapsacks  and  overcoats  rolled  thereon, 
and  received  the  expected  order,  which  ran  as  follows  :  — 

"  By  directions  from  head-quarters,  the  regiment  will  go  into  camp 
to-morrow  at  the  farm  of  Mr.  Stone,  Meridian  Hill.  The  hour  of 
inarch  will  be  stated  in  orders  to-morrow  morning. 

"  Quartermaster  Winchester  is  directed  to  have  the  camp  equipage 
transported  immediately  to  the  place  herein  designated. 

"  Lieutenant  E.  M.  Le  Moyne,  commanding,  will  have  his  command 
ready  for  marching  orders,  with  one  day's  rations,  at  three  o'clock  this  P.  M. 

"  Captain  Viele  will  accompany  the  command,  and  superintend  the 
laying  out  of  the  camp. 

"  Commissary  Patten  will  cause  the  necessary  stores  to  be  trans 
ported  from  the  Navy-yard." 

The  Ninth  and  Tenth  Companies,  under  Captain  Viele, 
marched  the  same  afternoon  to  Meridian  Hill,  and  began  to 
lay  out  the  camp.  Colonel  Lefferts  meanwhile  informed 
Major  McDowell  of  the  movement  in  these  words  :  — 

"  In  compliance  with  orders  from  head-quarters,  I  shall  move  my  main 
body  of  troops  to-morrow  afternoon  at  half  past  three  o'clock  for  encamp 
ment  on  Meridian  Hill.  I  have  detailed  two  of  my  companies  for  guard 
duty  to-morrow,  but  have  to  ask  whether  you  will  give  other  directions 
or  make  arrangements  to  relieve  my  companies  from  duty  during  the 
day,  that  they  may  go  with  the  main  body  to  camp. 

"  Allow  me  at  this  opportunity  to  thank  you  most  heartily  for  your 
many  kind  attentions,  and  express  my  regret  at  moving  away  from  the 
building  which  has  brought  us  into  such  close  and  pleasant  contact." 

Major  McDowell,  on  the  same  day,  answered  as  fol 
lows  :  — 


THE   SEVENTH  IN   THE   CAPITOL.  163 

HEAD-QUARTERS  OF  THE  CAPITOL, 

May  1,  1861. 

COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Seventh  Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  M. 

COLONEL,  —  Agreeably  to  the  request  contained  in  your  note  of  this 
date,  I  have  given  directions  that  the  companies  of  your  regiment  be  re 
lieved  from  the  detail  for  guard  for  to-morrow. 

It  is  with  sincere  regret  I  find  the  hour  for  your  departure  at  hand. 
It  is  a  positive  pleasure  to  have  your  regiment  here,  for  I  do  not  exag 
gerate  when  I  say  a  finer  body  of  a  thousand  men  are  not  on  the  face 
of  this  globe. 

With  the  kindest  wishes  for  you  all,  I  have  the  honor  to  be,  Colonel, 
Very  respectfully,  your  most  obedient  servant, 

IRVIN  MCDOWELL, 

Assistant  Adjutant- General. 

On  the  2d  of  May,  at  four  o'clock,  p.  M.,  the  regiment, 
with  full  ranks,  marched  out  of  the  Capitol,  down  Pennsyl 
vania  Avenue,  "exchanging  enthusiastic  adieus,"  say  the 
newspapers  of  the  day,  "  with  the  Massachusetts  regiment, 
and  cheered  all  along  the  route.  In  front  of  the  National 
Hotel,  Governor  Sprague's  (the  Rhode  Island)  regiment 
presented  arms.  The  Seventh  Regiment  presented  a  fine 
appearance,  and  was  followed  by  a  long  train  of  baggage- 
wagons."  And  so  ended  the  regiment's  occupation  of  the 
national  Capitol. 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


CHAPTEK    X. 


CAMP    CAMERON. 

HE  new  camp  had  been 
christened,  by  Colonel  Lef- 
ferts,  "  Camp  Cameron," 
in  honor  of  the  Secretary 
of  War,  and  by  that  name 
it  has  passed  into  history. 
Situated  on  Meridian  Hill, 
a  mile  out  on  Fourteenth 
Street,  and  opposite  Co 
lumbia  College,  the  camp 
was  both  healthy  and  beau 
tiful.  The  head-quarters 
commanded  a  view  of  the 
Potomac,  as  well  as  of  the 
capital,  and  of  Arlington 
Heights  beyond.  The  camp 
was  in  a  fine  clover-field, 
enveloped  by  woods,  where 
was  neatly  disposed  the 

camp  equipage,  consisting  of  two  hundred  and  twenty  wall- 
tents,  supplied  with  "  those  straw  bags  we  kindly  call  our 
mattresses."  The  wagons  brought  on  the  delicacies  and 
substantial  which  poured  in  daily  from  friends  in  New 
York. 

The  initiation  into  camp-life  was,  however,  a  severe  one. 
The  first  night  was  unusually  cold,  and  covered  the  field 
with  a  heavy  frost.  The  next  morning  a  violent  north- 


CAMP   CAMERON.  165 

cast  storm  set  in,  lasting  till  the  afternoon  of  the  following 
day.  The  unfloored  tents  did  not  keep  out  the  rain ;  the 
men  lay  in  their  blankets  in  the  wet  clover.  The  details 
for  guard  duty  were  thoroughly  drenched,  and  their  beats 
were  through  mire.  The  kitchens  were  not  yet  up,  and 
those  at  head-quarters  were  forced  to  do  duty  for  all  the 
companies.  "Jasper"  writes  to  the  New  York  Times,  un 
der  date  of  May  3d  :  — 

"  During  the  day  we  have  been  getting  ready  for  housekeeping,  and 
cooking  our  own  meals.  Scouts  are  ransacking  the  city  on  foot  and  in 
hacks,  making  extensive  purchases  of  tin  pans,  kettles,  pots,  basins,  &c. 
We  have  selected  cooks,  and  are  going  into  camp-life  in  earnest.  The 
rain  pours  in  torrents,  and  we  are  not  able  to  floor  our  tents,  so  we  turn 
in  on  the  straw,  and  sleep  warm  by  indulging  in  the  classic  Dutch  style 
of  bundling.  Several  of  us  have  been  engaged  in  boiling  potatoes  in  a 
huge  kettle  for  the  noon  meal.  Somehow  the  vast  kettle  keeled  over 
and  upset  the  pot,  the  water  put  out  the  fire,  and  we  were  effectually 
dished.  We  essayed  the  boiling  of  some  rice ;  the  rice  was  tip-top,  but 
it  would  burn.  After  a  while  we  shall  learn  the  ropes,  and  those  of  us 
who  are  not  married  will  learn  all  the  secrets  of  housekeeping  before  our 
thirty  days  has  expired.  There  are  about  two  hundred  and  fifty  tents 
on  the  ground,  six  men  being  allowed  to  each  tent,  with  the  exception 
of  the  officers,  who  have  a  tent  to  themselves.  The  Second  Company, 
the  advance  guard  on  the  march  from  Annapolis,  are  a  mighty  jolly  set, 
and  have  among  them  several  fine  singers.  One  of  the  tents  was  chris 
tened  Canterbury  Hall  last  evening,  but  this  morning  the  frost  lay  deep 
on  the  ground,  and  the  name  was  changed  to  the  Winter  Garden.  The 
scene  at  the  noonday  meal  to-day  was  ludicrous  in  the  extreme.  Each 
man  was  to  take  his  turn  with  tin  plate  and  cup,  and  as  each  company 
has  full  a  hundred  men,  the  last  ones  had  a  pretty  hard  time  of  it  dodg 
ing  the  pouring  rain.  In  a  few  days  everything  will  be  in  apple-pie 
order,  the  streets  and  avenues  will  be  laid  out,  and  the  Seventh  will  be 
happy  to  receive  their  lady  friends ;  but  at  present  everything  is  in  a 
most  heterogeneous  jumble,  save  and  except  the  discipline,  which  is 
always  perfect.  In  pleasant  weather  the  spot  selected  is  a  beautiful 
one,  overlooking  Fort  Washington  away  down  the  Potomac,  but  just 
now  the  mud  is  nearly  a  foot  deep.  The  solitary  sentries,  stern  as 
Roman  soldiers,  will  have  a  hard  time  of  it  to-night. 

"  As  I  write,  the  camp-fires  are  being  lighted  to  cook  the  evening 
meal,  and  the  red  glare  of  the  torches  throws  a  picturesque  light  over 


166  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

the  white  canvas  that  holds  so  many  of  the  flower  of  our  city.  Young 
men  who  were  never  in  a  kitchen  are  now  deeply  engaged  in  the  mysteries 
of  the  cuisine ;  while  others  are  preparing  their  coifee  in  alcoholic  arrange 
ments,  which  are  warranted  not  to  burn  the  aromatic  beverage.  Others, 
again,  by  the  light  of  their  chandeliers,  which  swing  from  the  roof  of 
their  tents,  are  busily  engaged  in  reading  loved  missives  from  home,  or 
writing  laconic  notes  oi»  the  back  of  their  knapsacks.  A  general  cheer 
fulness  pervades  the  entire  regiment ;  and  what  would  be  thought  ter 
rible  hardships  at  home  are  here  turned  into  merry  jests." 

The  Chaplain  says :  "  Our  encampment  was  called  Mount 
Pleasant,  but,  for  a  time,  this  was  a  palpable  misnomer. 
It  rained  incessantly,  the  weather  cold,  the  tents  were 
without  floors ;  the  men,  without  beds,  were  compelled  to 
lie  down  (many  of  them  drenched  to  the  skin  from  being 
on  guard)  in  the  wet,  rank  clover.  The  hospital  was  soon 
filled  with  invalids,  and  I  can  only  attribute  their  rapid 
recovery  to  their  youth,  spirits,  temperate  habits,  and  the 
skill  of  our  excellent  medical  staff."  * 

But,  on  the  4th,  the  floods  ceased,  fair  weather  came, 
tent-floors  were  constructed,  and,  during  three  days  there 
after,  the  camp  was  busily  set  in  order. 

The  regiment  was  glad  to  be  out  of  the  city,  where  now 
had  arrived  six  regiments  from  New  York,  three  more 
from  Massachusetts,  two  from  Pennsylvania,  and  one  from 
Rhode  Island,  —  a  total,  with  the  Regulars  and  city  militia, 
of  perhaps  fifteen  thousand  men.  The  position  it  had  occu 
pied  was  on  the  road  to  Harper's  Ferry,  and  was  one  of 
more  responsibility  than  the  men  themselves  were  aware 
of.  Colonel  Lefferts  was  instructed  to  post  strong  guards, 

*  A  letter  of  May  3d  from  the  regiment  says:  "  The  straw  mattresses  furnished 
were  very  small  and  poor,  and  only  enough  to  supply  three  or  four  to  a  tent,  and 
each  tent  occupied  by  six  men,  so  that  our  sleeping  arrangements  were  not  the 
most  comfortable.  There  was  a  stack  of  hay  in  the  field  which  the  boys  soon  de 
molished,  and  carried  to  their  quartei-s,  —  that  is,  those  who  were  fortunate  enough 
to  get  any,  —  and  then,  to  improve  matters,  we  had  no  supper.  About  nine  o'clock 
the  sergeant  obtained  from  the  commissary  a  hard  biscuit  and  a  small  piece  of 
cheese  for  each  man." 


CAMP   CAMEKON.  167 

and,  on  the  very  day  the  camp  was  occupied,  he  received 
the  following  order,  in  General  Mansfield's  own  hand  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  DEPARTMENT  WASHINGTON,  May  2,  1861. 
COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  Seventh  Regiment. 

SIR,  —  Lieutenant-General  Scott  desires  me  to  say  to  you,  that,  in  case 
of  an  alarm  of  attack  at  night,  you  will  march  your  regiment  directly  to 
the  President's  house. 

Please  put  out  your  pickets  from  your  camp  on  the  highway,  far 
enough  for  you  to  rally  before  attacked. 

I  apprehend,  however,  no  attack  at  this  time. 
Very  truly, 

Jos.  K.  F.  MANSFIELD, 

Colonel  Commanding. 

On  the  same  day,  at  a  later  hour,  he  received  a  hurried 
note  from  the  same  officer,  in  these  words  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  DEPARTMENT  WASHINGTON,  May  2. 
COLONEL  M.  LEFFERTS,  Seventh  New  York  Regiment. 

Please  have  your  command  furnished  with  full  supply  of  ball  cartridges 
before  dark,  and  hold  them  ready  at  any  moment  to  take  the  field. 

Jos.  K.  F.  MANSFIELD, 

Colonel  Commanding. 
(Confidential.') 

Labor  and  taste  soon  made  the  new  camp  a  soldiers'  vil 
lage,  and  every  tent  a  cottage  filled  with  congenial  and 
happy  inmates.  Eight  companies  were  established  on  the 
broad  elevated  plateau,  covered  with  high  and  rich  clover 
(which,  however,  the  perpetual  tramp  of  so  many  men 
soon  wore  to  the  ground),  in  regular  rows  of  wall 
tents,  without  the  fly,  arranged  in  broad  and  neat  streets. 
The  Ninth  and  Tenth,  or  howitzer  companies,  were  quar 
tered  in  outbuildings ;  the  former,  however,  soon  after  occu 
pying  a  large  marquee.  In  front  of  the  tents,  and  sloping 
gently  down,  was  the  broad  and  handsome  parade-ground 
and  drilling-field.  A  broad  avenue,  shaded  by  oaks,  wil 
lows,  and  poplars,  some  of  whose  branches  interlaced,  con 
ducted  by  an  easy  ascent  from  Fourteenth  Street  to  the 


168  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

Stone  mansion  ;  and  on  this,  a  few  rods  from  the  gate  (the 
latter  under  the  charge  of  two  sentinels),  was  established 
the  guard-tent.  A  chain  of  sentinels  prescribed  by  their 
beats  the  limit  of  the  camp.  Partly  concealed  by  the  splen 
did  oaks  so  thick  around  it,  but  rising  above  them,  was  the 
villa,  with  its  carriage-porch  of  four  granite  pillars  in  front, 
forming  a  commodious  head-quarters,  with  the  Colonel's 
quarters  in  the  large,  neat  parlor,  and  those  of  his  staif  and 
of  the  Engineer  Corps  in  various  other  rooms  around  and 
above.  The  cellars,  outbuildings,  and  green-house  contained 
the  commissary  stores,  and  the  enormous  quantity  of  "  bar 
rels,  boxes,  cans,  and  bottles "  of  food  and  condiments 
continually  sent  on  by  friends  of  the  regiment.  The  guns 
were  put  in  battery,  a  flag-staff  raised,  and  all  the  ap 
pointments  of  a  camp  scene  —  since  so  familiar  to  Ameri 
cans  —  were  complete.  The  tents  of  the  company  officers 
were,  of  course,  on  a  line  at  right  angles  to  those  of  the 
men.  Each  "  street  "  had  its  amusing  name,  sometimes 
connected  with  that  of  an  officer ;  and  each  tent  a  droller 
one,  with  the  list  of  its  occupants  on  a  placard  at  the 
door.  The  following  sketch  of  the  camp  is  given  with  but 
few  condensations  from  the  original,  which,  in  a  letter 
dated  Washington,  May  16,  1861,  appeared  in  the  columns 
of  a  New  York  daily  paper :  — 

"  How  the  jolly  Seventh  enjoy  life  in  Camp  Cameron  is  somethihg  the 
people  of  Washington  will  remember  when  this  war  is  a  thing  of  the 
past.  About  a  mile  and  a  half  north  of  Washington,  and  on  the  high 
road  to  Harper's  Ferry,  you  begin  to  ascend  Meridian  Hill,  flanked 
right  and  left  by  green  fields  and  picturesque  clumps  of  foliage,  now  in 

full  leaf  and  flower You  now  leave  the  shaded  avenue,  the  road 

to  the  camp  leading  north,  over  a  plain,  open  field,  and  a  gradual  ascent 
of  some  twenty  rods,  which,  when  you  have  reached,  you  find  yourself  on 
the  crown  of  Meridian  Hill.  The  camp  is  pitched  on  ground  sloping  to 
the  north,  the  drill-ground  facing  to  the  south,  and  extending  the  whole 
length  of  the  tents.  The  camp,  of  square  tents,  is  laid  out  in  streets 
with  great  regularity,  and  presents  a  picturesque  appearance.  Many  of 
the  streets,  and  even  the  tents,  are  named  alter  some  familiar  avenue  or 


CAMP    CAMERON.  169 

place  of  resort  in  New  York ;  and  the  neatness  and  precision  with  which 
everything  appertaining  to  the  soldier  is  arranged,  denotes  the  character 
of  the  men  forming  the  corps.  The  camp  was  all  astir  just  then,  for  it 
was  near  dinner-time,  and  many  were  the  invitations  to  stop  and  share 
their  '  rations.'  Little  furnaces  were  erected  here  and  there  between  the 
tents,  and  the  imp-like  figures  of  little  black  boys  were  busy  over  stew 
and  fry  pans.  It  was  instructive  to  see  how  men  reared  in  tenderness, 
and  accustomed  to  all  the  luxuries  of  New  York  life,  adapted  themselves 
thus  readily  to  all  the  hardships  of  camp-life.  But  they  have  improved 
in  health  under  it,  and  seem  to  enjoy  it  heartily. 

"•  The  tents  are  all  nicely  floored,  and  provided  with  good  blankets  and 
mattresses.  In  one,  members  might  be  seen  stretched,  some  sleeping, 
some  reading,  some  singing,  —  all  in  dark  gray  undress.  Others  were 
furbishing  up  their  muskets,  whitening  their  belts,  or  polishing  their  own 
boots.  At  times  you  fell  upon  a  young  gentleman  reading  letters  from 
home.  It  is  curious  to  see  what  a  variety  of  things  are  sent  here  by 
friends  of  the  regiment  in  New  York,  as  well  as  relatives  of  the  mem 
bers.  Barrels  of  ale,  eider,  and  apples,  boxes  of  oranges  and  lemons, 
jars  of  pickles  and  preserved  meats,  cans  of  various  kinds  of  sweet 
meats,  cases  marked  'hardware,'  which  means  brandy  and  whiskey 
(called  by  some  *  fighting  mixture'),  and  crackers  and  sardines.  All 
these  are  denominated  '  medical  stores.'  New  York  takes  good  care  of 
the  Seventh,  and  I  may  have  added  that  many  of  the  donors  of  these 
presents  are  unknown  to  the  recipients. 

"  After  strolling  through  the  camp  for  some  time,  I  shaped  my  course 
for  the  tent  in  which  Gifford  the  artist  was  located.  Here  I  met  with 
a  warm  welcome  from  an  old  friend  and  companion.  All  was  neatness 
and  order  in  this  tent,  just  what  you  might  expect  of  such  an  occupant. 
The  mattresses,  covered  with  blankets,  were  carefully  stowed  on  one 
side ;  there  was  a  place  for  and  a  row  of  polished  boots  in  their  places ; 
the  knapsacks,  bright  and  clean,  were  all  in  their  places  at  one  end ;  the 
accoutrements  hung  in  their  places ;  the  '  medical  stores,'  of  which  there 
was  a  bountiful  supply,  stood  in  one  comer ;  and  the  little  table  and  the 
pewter  looked  as  bright  as  if  it  had  just  come  from  the  hands  of  a  skil 
ful  kitchen-maid.  A  rack  at  the  head  of  the  camp  held  the  arms.  A 
very  small  edition  of  a  darkey  was  cooking  the  noonday  meal  over  a 
fire  at  the  door." 

Of  the  head-quarters  the  same  visitor  writes  :  — 

"  On  the  right  are  the  Colonel's  and  Quartermaster's  quarters,  plainly 
furnished,  but  comfortable.  These  are  the  best  parlors,  where  Madison 
and  Adams. used  to  entertain  their  guests.  On  the  left  are  the  quarters 


170  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

of  the  Lieutenant-Colonel,  Adjutant,  and  Major,  their  swords  and  other 
weapons  hanging  on  the  walls ;  tables  covered  with  papers,  a  few  chairs, 
and  camp-stools  making  up  the  furniture.  An  intricate  passage  leads 
you  into  the  rear,  and,  passing  down  a  few  steps,  you  find  yourself  in 
store-rooms  of  various  kinds,  the  bakery,  the  Quartermaster's  depart 
ment,  and  various  oval  departments,  where  the  members  of  the  Engineer 
Corps  have  taken  up  their  quarters,  some  stretched  on  mattresses,  others 
busy  with  their  arms  and  uniforms.  Returning  to  the  first  floor,  you 
ascend  bridge-shaped  stairs,  and  are  on  the  second  floor,  where  the 
officers  and  non-commissioned  officers  of  engineers  have  their  quarters. 
The  rooms  are  small,  but  high  of  ceiling  and  airy,  and  were  formerly 
used  for  bedrooms.  Each  room  is  occupied  by  six  or  eight  men,  accord 
ing  to  size,  and  called  by  some  familiar  name.  One  was  '  Bleak  House,' 
another  '  Snug  Home,'  and  a  third,  I  think,  *  Muggins.' 

The  day  after  the  camp  was  occupied,  the  following 
order  was  issued  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT,  "  CAMP  CAMEROS," 
MOUNT  PLEASANT,  WASHINGTON,  May  3,  1861. 

STANDING  ORDER  NO.    1. 

This  Camp  shall  be  called  "  Camp  Cameron,"  in  honor  of  the  Secre 
tary  of  War. 

The  Chain  of  Sentinels  shall  be  the  limit  of  the  Camp. 

No  member  of  the  regiment  shall  pass  outside  of  the  limits  of  the  Camp 
without  express  permission  of  the  Officer  of  the  Day,  and  then  only  by 
way  of  the  guard  tent,  where  he  shall  report  himself  going  and  return 
ing.  Not  more  than  ten  men  of  any  one  company  shall  be  absent  at 
one  time. 

The  Officer  of  the  Guard  shall  keep  a  list  of  men  so  leaving  Camp, 
with  the  time  of  their  reporting  to  him,  and  submit  the  same  with  his 
Guard  Report  in  the  morning. 

Every  man  must  be  present  at  morning  and  afternoon  drill,  unless  he 
is  on  the  sick  report  or  has  a  written  excuse  from  his  commandant. 

"  REVEILLE  "  at  sunrise,  when  the  morning  gun  will  be  fired  by 
the  guard ;  immediately  after  roll-call  the  tents  will  be  put  in  order  and 
the  streets  cleaned  of  all  straw,  &c.,  which  must  be  removed  from  the 
Camp-Ground. 

Half  an  hour  after  "  Reveille,"  the  signal  for  Recruit  squad  drill, 
which  will  last  one  hour. 

"  Surgeon's  Call "  at  half  past  six,  A.  M.,  when  the  sick  in  camp,  of 
each  company,  .who  are  able,  will  be  marched  to  the  Dispensary,  in 
charge  of  a  non-commissioned  officer. 


CAMP   CAMERON. 

"Peas  on  a  Trencher,"  call  for  breakfast,  at  seven  o'clock,  A.  M., 
when  the  companies  will  be  formed  and  receive  their  rations  in  turn. 

Call  for  details  for  guard  duty  at  twenty  minutes  before  eight,  A.  M. 

Call  for  details  to  repair  to  Regimental  Parade  at  ten  minutes  before 
eight,  A.  M. 

"Troop"  for  guard-mounting  at  eight,  A.  M.,  —  immediately  after 
which  the  First  Sergeant,  with  a  detail  of  men,  will  draw  their  RATIONS 
for  the  day. 

The  "  Assembly  "  for  company  drill,  at  half  past  nine,  A.  M.  This 
drill  will  last  one  hour.  The  Troop  will  be  drilled  with  the  Howitzers ; 
the  Regimental  Engineer  will  select  some  place  in  the  immediate  neigh 
borhood,  where  the  Engineer  Corps  will  be  practised  in  the  construction 
of  Gabions  and  Fascines. 

"  Roast  Beef"  will  be  sounded  for  dinner  at  twelve,  M. 

The  "  Assembly  "  for  Companies  to  form  for  Battalion  Drill  will  be  at 
five,  P.  M. 

First  Sergeant's  call  fifteen  minutes  after. 

To  the  Color  to  form  by  Battalion  at  half  past  five,  P.  M. 

Evening  gun  to  be  fired  at  sunset. 

"  Tattoo  "  at  ten,  p.  M.     Taps  at  half  past  ten,  p.  M. 

There  will  be  roll-calls  on  the  company  parades,  at  Reveille,  and  even 
ing  parades  superintended  by  a  commissioned  officer. 

The  recruits  will  be  exercised  at  least  twice  a  day  by  an  officer  or 
non-commissioned  officer. 

All  drills  will  be  attended  in  full  fatigue  dress,  officers  and  non-com 
missioned  officers  omitting  the  sash. 

Company  and  squad  drills  will  be  supervised  by  Major  Shalei,  who  is 
hereby  directed  to  attend  in  person,  and  direct  a  programme  of  exercises. 

When  off  duty,  in  the  public  streets,  all  officers,  non-commissioned 
officers,  and  privates  will  wear  the  body-belt  alone,  the  coat  buttoned. 
On  dress  parades,  the  officers  and  sergeants  will  wear  the  sash. 

The  cap-cover  will  be  worn  in  wet  weather  only. 

Pistols  will  not  be  carried  by  officers  or  men  except  in  actual  conflict, 
or  when  on  the  march. 

All  fancy  articles  of  dress  are  prohibited  at  all  times. 
By  order  of 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Colonel  Commanding. 

One  modification  of  this  order  was  made  next  day,  in 
consequence  of  the  issue  of  General  Orders  No.  17  from 
Department  Head-quarters,  which  prescribes  that 

"  Tattoo  will  take  place  throughout  the  city,  of  Washington  and  its 


172  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

vicinity  at  half  past  nine  o'clock,  p.  M.  ;  after  which  all  troops,  both  offi 
cers  and  soldiers,  will  remain  in  camp  or  quarters  until  reveille,  unless 
out  under  orders,  or  with  special  permits  from  their  commanders.  A 
patrol  will  pass  through  the  city  under  the  orders  of  the  Provost-Mar 
shal,  and  all  irregularities  will  be  promptly  corrected." 

Ten  days  later  (May  14)  General  Mansfield  issued  the 
following  General  Order  No.  21 :  — 

"  I.  On  an  alarm  of  fire,  the  troops  at  their  respective  camps  and  quar 
ters  will  not  leave  their  limits  unless  ordered  out. 

"  II.  There  will  be  no  serenading  by  bands  after  tattoo  (half  past 
nine,  p.  M.),  except  by  written  permit  from  these  head-quarters. 

"  III.  Field  officers  of  the  day  will  be  detailed,  who  will  receive  their 
orders  direct  from  these  head-quarters. 

"  IY.  In  case  of  an  attack  and  consequent  alarm,  which  will  be  made 
known  by  the  firing  of  three  minute-guns  and  the  tolling  of  the  church 
bells,  the  troops  will  assemble  for  battle  on  their  respective  parade- 
grounds,  and  wait  orders." 

Major  Shaler  was  directed  to  arrange  a  Manual  of  Arms, 
substantially  like  Hardee's,  taken  from  the  French,  and  to 
instruct  the  commissioned  officers  therein,  and  superintend 
the  drills  of  the  men. 

From  the  "  Standing  Order  No.  1,"  and  the  various 
orders  for  drill,  target  practice,  and  so  forth,  which  fol 
lowed,  a  good  idea  may  be  drawn  of  life  at  Camp  Cameron. 
First  came  the^  inevitable  and  startling  sunrise  gun,  and 
thereupon  the  instantaneous  clatter  of  drums  and  fifes, 
beating  and  playing  the  reveille  ;  then  the  ringing  orderly's 
cry, "  Fall  in  for  roll-call !  "  followed  by  the  roll-call  itself; 
then  the  morning  wash  at  the  spring  in  the  oak-grove,  at 
the  rear  of  the  camp ;  then  an  hour's  drill  for  recruits  be 
fore  breakfast ;  then  breakfast,  welcomed  with  keen  appe 
tites  ;  next,  the  always  interesting  ceremony  of  guard- 
mounting,  followed  by  an  hour's  company  drill,  and  two 
hours'  battalion  drill,  which,  with  a  little  rest,  fill  up  the 
time  till  dinner.  Appetites  whetted  by  exercise  and  out-door 
life  would  have  found  little  to  complain  of  in  the  govern 
ment  rations,  even  with  beef  and  coffee  sometimes  ques- 


CAMP   CAMERON.  173 

tionable  in  quality;  but  the  farmers  also  bring  in  tlie 
produce  of  their  dairies  and  gardens  from  all  the  country 
around,  and  delicacies  come  from  home  in  great  wagon- 
loads  daily.  Idling,  smoking,  writing  letters,  reading, 
playing  at  games,  cleaning  muskets,  equipments,  or  quarters, 
leaving  camp  upon  passes,  now  suggest  their  claims  to 
attention.  Target  practice  or  skirmish  drill  and  more 
recruit  drill  follow,  and  afterwards  the  daily  inspection  of 
quarters  by  the  officer  of  the  day,  conducted  with  great 
formality,  while  the  band  plays  its  best.  Then  comes 
dress  parade,  when  "  all  Washington  appears."  The  camp 
is  full  of  guests,  men,  women,  and  children,  high  govern 
ment  officials  and  army  officers  often,  and  many  ladies ;  all 
testify  their  admiration.  Gymnastic  sports  succeed  the 
parade.  The  sunset  gun  tells  that  evening  has  come,  and, 
as  the  tent-fires  light  up,  the  moon  sails  serene  into  the 
heavens,  and  looks  down  on  Camp  Cameron,  —  on  the 
manly  youth  singing  patriotic  songs,  and  talking  over  the 
events  of  an  era  in  which  each  day  is  a  lifetime,  or  out 
yonder  on  the  Harper's  Ferry  Road,  watching  in  the  silent 
night,  with  eye  and  ear  and  hand  alert  against  the  enemy. 
The  letters  published  by  camp  correspondents  of  the 
New  York  papers,  at  this  period,  are  full  of  interesting 
and  often  amusing  details.  One  in  the  New  York  Post 
says : — 

"  The  '  sensation  '  of  each  day  at  Camp  Cameron  is  the  arrival  of  a 
black  covered  wagon,  inscribed  '  Seventh  Regiment,  United  States  Mail 
and  Express,'  which  brings  more  mail  matter  every  afternoon  than 

passes  through  the  post-offices  of  a  German  principality  in  a  week 

Evening  dress^  parade  at  Camp  Cameron  is  becoming  a  fashionable 
resort,  and  even  the  belles  of  Georgetown,  who  have  been  more  or  less 
carried  away  by  the  secession  mania,  are  extending  their  afternoon 
strolls  to  the  college  grounds,  to  witness  the  imposing  lines  of  glistening 
gun-barrels  moving  at  the  Colonel's  word,  and  to  hear  Grafulla's  fine 
band  perform  national  airs." 

Another  letter  says  :  — 


174  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

"  One  tent  has  its  kitten,  another  its  dog,  another  two  crows,  —  any 
thing,  in  short,  to  pet.  And  it  is  curious  to  see  how  these  pets,  except 
the  crows,  are  borrowed  and  jealously  watched.  In  front  of  some  of  the 
tents,  imitations  of  court-yards  are  made,  with  sods  and  small  evergreens." 

A  third  says :  — 

"  Government  furnishes  us,  among  our  rations,  small  droves  of  cattle  ; 
the  guards,  with  long  poles  and  staves,  and  pants  turned  up,  and 
slouched  in  their  appearance,  may  be  seen  taking  charge  of  them, 
driving  them  daily  through  Pennsylvania  Avenue  to  water,  and  then 
back  to  pasture,  and,  as  called  for,  preparing  them  for  cooking,  and  then 

for  the  table We  have  four  mountain  howitzers  here,  and  two 

rifled  cannon  on  their  way,  we  hope,  and  have  so  understood.  We  cer 
tainly  will  have  a  fine  battery  when  it  is  complete,  viz.  four  howitzers 
and  four  rifled  cannon." 

Not  only  letters  but  "  supplies  "  came  daily  from  New 
York  in  such  abundance,  that,  on  the  10th  of  May,  Quarter 
master  Winchester  sent  this  telegram  to  the  Adams  Ex 
press  Company  in  New  York :  "  Do  advise  our  friends  to 
stop  sending  things  to  us.  We  have  no  means  of  keeping 
them ;  besides,  we  are  surfeited.  Hereafter,  demand  prepay 
ment  on  anything  sent  to  us,  except  letters  and  articles  of 
dress,  which  please  send  free."  Yet,  a  fortnight  later,  a 
Philadelphia  paper  announces  that,  "  on  the  22d,  the  regi 
ment  received  between  eight  and  nine  hundred  boxes,  bales, 
and  packages  from  New  York,  containing  supplies,  dona 
tions,  gifts,  &c.,  and  embracing  all  the  luxuries  the  market 
could  afford." 

On  Sunday,  May  5th,  took  place  the  first  inspection  and 
the  first  dress  parade  at  the  camp.  At  10  A.  M.  the  articles 
of  war  were  read  to  the  regiment,  formed  in  hollow  square, 
by  the  Chaplain  ;  at  half  past  one,  P.  M.,  divine. service  was 
held  under  the  shade  of  the  oaks  fronting  head-quarters. 
On  the  afternoon  of  the  7th,  the  regiment  was  reviewed  by 
General  Mansfield,  many  other  distinguished  persons  being 
present ;  and  afterwards  the  various  companies  were  visited 
by  Major  Anderson,  who  was  everywhere  greeted  with  hearty 


CAMP   CAMERON.  175 

cheers.  The  next  day  the  troops  were  reviewed  and  the 
camp  was  inspected  by  the  Secretary  of  War,  who  was  re 
ceived  with  a  salute  of  thirteen  guns.  On  the  llth  the  dress 
parade  was  witnessed  by  the  Secretaries  of  State  and  of 
the  Navy,  Senator  Wilson,  Mr.  Thurlow  Weed,  and  others ; 
on  the  12th,  by  the  President,  the  Secretaries  of  State  and 
of  the  Treasury,  and  the  French  and  Brazilian  Ministers ; 
on  the  13th,  by  the  President  and  Secretary  Seward.  On 
the  15th,  the  President,  Secretary  Seward,  and  Mr.  Astor, 
Mr.  M.  H.  Blatchford,  Mr.  Simeon  Draper,  and  Mr.  C.  H. 
Russell  of  the  Union  Defence  Committee,  were  among  the 
guests  ;  on  the  21st,  Senators  Foote,  Simmer,  and  Clemens. 
No  fair  day  passed  without  its  throng  of  distinguished  vis 
itors,  and  the  drills  and  parade  were  a  constant  theme  of 
admiration.  Secretary  Seward  paid  the  regiment  the  com 
pliment  of  inviting  each  field  officer  and  company  com 
mander  to  his  levee  of  Tuesday,  May  21st. 

On  the  9th  of  May,  Private  J.  Larrie  Keese  of  the 
Eighth  Company  was  killed  by  the  accidental  discharge  of 
a  musket.  As  this  was  the  first  death  in  the  regiment,  and 
Keese  was  a  young  man  of  excellent  business,  social,  and 
literary  abilities,  and  a  general  favorite,  gloom  was  cast 
over  the  camp.  Appropriate  resolutions  were  passed  by 
his  comrades,  and  a  sergeant  and  six  men  were  detailed  by 
the  Colonel  to  accompany  the  remains,  in  their  metallic 
coffin,  to  Brooklyn.  In  the  latter  city,  imposing  and  impres 
sive  funeral  ceremonies  were  held  at  Christ  Church  by  Rev. 
Dr.  Canfield,  and  a  throng  of  five  thousand  citizens  came 
to  pay  the  last  rites  of  respect  to  the  first  of  the  long  list 
of  hero  martyrs  that  the  Seventh  Regiment  was  destined  to 
furnish  to  the  country.  The  cortege,  preceded  by  an  escort 
of  the  National  Guard  Reserve  Corps,  and  two  platoons  of 
the  Ninth  Regiment,  and  many  military  guests,  proceeded 
to  Greenwood  Cemetery,  where  Keese  was  buried  with 
military  honors.  The  following  is  the  official  correspond 
ence  on  this  event :  — 


176   ,     HISTORY  OF  THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

To  THE  TELEGRAPH  OPERATOR. 
To  THE  CHIEF  OPERATOR  OF  THE  TELEGRAPH  OFFICE. 

I  do  not  wish  the  death  of  one  of  our  men  communicated  by  tele 
graph,  as  I  have  sent  forward  a  courier  to  announce  it,  for  which  1  will 
be  responsible.     Suppress  any  message  announcing  the  fact. 
Respectfully, 

M.  LEFFERTS,  Colonel. 

COLONEL  LEFFERTS  TO  MRS.  KEESE. 

CAMP  CAMERON,  WASHINGTON,  May  9,  1861. 
MRS.  KEESE,  Brooklyn, 

MY  DEAR  MADAM,  —  It  is  with  feelings  of  the  deepest  sympathy  that 
I  am  compelled  to  inform  you  of  the  death  of  your  son,  J.  Lawrence 
Keese,  this  morning,  by  the  accidental  discharge  of  a  musket.  He 
has  fallen  none  the  less  in  defence  of  his  country's  altar  and  his  home. 
His  brother  soldiers  will  mourn,  his  loss,  while  they  profess  their  profound 
sorrow  at  his  untimely  end. 

Believe  me  truly  your  friend, 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS, 

Colonel  Seventh  Regiment. 
This  letter  will  be  delivered  by  a  special  courier,  Mr.  McJimsey. 

SECOND  LETTER  FROM  COXONEL  LEFFERTS. 

WASHINGTON,  CAMP  CAMERON,  May  10,  1861. 
MRS.  KEESE. 

MY  DEAR  MADAM,  —  I  addressed  you  a  few  lines  yesterday  by  special 
messenger,  with  the  sad  news  of  the  death  of  your  son.  I  will  not,  at 
this  time,  trespass  upon  your  sorrowful  moments  further  than  to  express 
my  heartfelt  sympathy  with  your  loss.  I  enclose  a  few  locks  of  his  hair 
and  his  shirt-studs  and  sleeve-buttons.  The  rest  of  his  effects  are  in 
charge  of  his  cousin,  Mr.  McJimsey. 

May  the   blessings   of  Him  who   doeth  all  things  well   cause  this 

blow  to  fall  lightly. 

Yours  truly, 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS, 

Colonel  Seventh  Regiment. 

One  of  the  daily  papers  adds :  — 

"  It  is  said  that  young  Keese;  when  summoned  to  go  to  the  war,  ex 
pressed  an  opinion  that  he  should  never  return  alive,  and  at  his  sugges 
tion  the  marriage  ceremony  between  himself  and  Miss  Maria  Tucker  — 


CAMP   CAMERON. 


177 


to  whom  lie  had  been  engaged  for  some  time  —  was  performed.  The 
newly  wedded  pair  were  together  for  one  short  half-hour  immediately 
after  the  ceremony,  when  he  took  his  leave.  That  night  he  passed  with 
the  regiment  in  quarters,  and  the  only  time  his  wife  saw  him  alive  after 
the  interview  spoken  of  was  in  the  ranks  next  day,  when  the  regiment 
marched  down  Broadway." 

Target-firing  was  practised  daily,  in  accordance  with  a 
general  order  from  the  department.  Commandants  of  com 
panies  were  directed  to  divide  their  commands  into  three 
squads,  designated  target  squads,  each  under  the  command 
of  a  commissioned  officer  and  one  sergeant^  and  every 
morning  (when  not  raining)  between  the  hours  of  seven 
o'clock,  A.  M.  and  twelve,  M.,  the  squads  were  to  be  marched 
to  the  target-ground,  and  each  man  allowed  two  cartridges 
for  practice. 

On  the  day  after  the  arrival  at  Camp  Cameron,  the  fol 
lowing  was  the  strength  of  the  regiment :  — 

Consolidated  Morning  Report  of  the  Seventh   Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  M., 
May  3,  1861. 


Present. 

Effective. 

Sick. 

Absent. 

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J.  HENRY  LIEBENAU,  Adjutant. 


12 


178  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

The  regiment,  as  the  campaign  progressed,  was  greatly 
swelled  by  recruits.  It  marched,  as  we  have  said,  with 
nine  hundred  and  ninety-one  men.  Its  first  accession  con 
sisted  of  the  detachment  which  followed  in  the  Baltic, 
under  Colonel  Butterfield  ;  its  next  of  the  one  hundred  and 
seventy-five  men  who  came  on  the  first  trip  of  the  Daylight. 
From  these  were  subtracted  some  who  returned  to  New 
York  sick,  having  broken  down  during  the  Annapolis  march 
or  later. 

For  several  days  this  strength  remained  about  the  same. 
On  the  13th  of  May  the  regiment  showed  an  aggregate  of 
1,156,  and  this  was-  increased  by  additions  of  various  sorts. 
The  consolidated  report  of  May  20th  showed  1,231  men,  with 
only  two  in  hospital  and  twenty-seven  on  furlough.  The 
highest  aggregate  ever  reached  at  any  one  time  was  1,270  ; 
but  the  total  number  of  men,  including  band,  &c.,  connected 
with  the  regiment  during  the  campaign,  was  considerably 
greater.  So  early  as  the  29th  of  April,  Colonel  Lefferts 
wrote  to  New  York  that  he  could  receive  no  more  recruits, 
except  forty  or  fifty  for  the  Second  Company  of  artillery. 
However,  many  came  to  the  camp  unbidden.  On  the  13th 
of  May  a  detachment  of  sixty-eight  recruits  for  the  Ninth 
(howitzer)  Company  arrived  at  Washington  in  the  Matan- 
zas,  under  command  of  Sergeant  Tyng  of  the  Sixth  Com 
pany.  They  were  all  enlisted  within  two  days,  and  had  been 
drilled  three  times  a  day  during  the  week  before  their  de 
parture.  They  marched  from  the  armory  to  the  pier,  on 
the  9th,  amid  great  enthusiasm,  escorted  by  Company  E, 
9th  Regiment  (Lieutenant  Meeks),  and  Company  A,  55th 
Regiment  (Captain  Tissot)  of  the  New  York  Militia,  and 
were  greeted  on  board  the  boat  by  a  large  assembly  of  the 
friends  of  the  regiment. 

In  speaking  of  recruits  and  supplies,  it  becomes  neces 
sary  to  refer  once  more  to  the  Veterans  and  "  National 
Guard  Reserve,"  who  at  this  time  took  the  liveliest  inter- 


CAMP   CAMERON.  179 

est  in  the  regiment  proper,  and  supported  it  with  a  zeal  and 
enthusiasm  which  only  the  most  perfect  esprit  de  corps 
could  inspire.  It  has  heretofore  been  noted  how,  on  the 
evening  before  the  regiment  marched  to  the  war,  the  Yet 
eran  Association  met  at  the  armory  to  organize  a  "  home 
guard."  Two  days  later  (Sunday,  April  21),  Paymaster 
Thomas  M.  Adriance  of  the  Veterans  wrote  to  Colonel  Lef- 
ferts  :  "  The  armory  is  constantly  thronged  with  applicants 
to  join  the  Seventh  Regiment  at  Washington.  Some  are 
going  on  at  all  events,  and  trust  to  prove  fit  for  admission. 
The  Veteran  Guard  and  ex-members,  and  the  members  of 
the  Seventh  who  cannot  leave  the  city,  are  organized  into 
eight  companies  to  take  the  place  of  the  regiment  while 
absent."  On  the  25th,  Adjutant  Asher  Taylor  wrote  :  "  We 
are  still  pressed  with  applications  for  admission  to  the  regi 
ment,  and  give  the  same  answer,  i.  e.  they  may  go  for 
ward  on  their  chances  of  being  acceptable  to  you  or  any  of 
the  companies  of  the  regiment.  It  looks  as  if  we  would 
have  two  hundred  more  to  send  forward  in  four  or  five  days. 
....  The  organization  of  the  '  National  Guard  Reserve  ' 
was  completed  on  Tuesday  evening,  the  stay-at-homes  and 
exempts  of  the  several  companies  forming  companies,  elect 
ing  officers,  &c.  Colonel  Stevens  was  elected  Colonel; 
Vermilye,  Lieutenant-Colonel ;  and  Holt,  Major."  They  are 
all  going  into  drill  in  earnest." 

On  the  27th,  there  were  enrolled  429  men  in  the  "  Na 
tional  Guard  Reserve."  On  the  28th,  Colonel  Stevens  re 
ported  to  Colonel  Lefferts,  that  recruits  for  the  regiment 
were  drilled  daily  by  competent  men  from  eight  to  eleven, 
A.  M.,  and  from  three  to  six,  P.  M., —  six  hours.  In  the 
evenings  the  large  drill-room  at  the  armory  was  used  by 
the  National  Guard  Reserve,  "  Which,"  adds  Colonel  Ste 
vens,  "  numbers  about  five  hundred  men,  and  is  constantly 
increasing.  We  can  send  you  one  hundred  recruits  per 
week  for  some  weeks  to  come,  and  such  men  as  any  com- 


180  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

pany,  even  of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  will  be  glad  to  en 
list."  In  fine,  on  the  30th,  Colonel  Stevens  officially  re 
ported  to  General  Sandford  that  "  the  ex-members  of  the 
National  Guard  have  organized  eight  companies,  averaging 
fifty-six  men  to  each  company,  for  home  service,  —  the 
corps  to  be  denominated  '  National  Guard  Reserve.'  The 
company  and  field  officers  have  been  duly  elected,  and  the 
staff  officers  appointed." 

After  this  explanatory  preface,  the  following  correspond 
ence  regarding  recruits  in  1861  will  be  read  with  interest :  — 

ADJUTANT  TAYLOR  TO  COLONEL  LEFFERTS. 

NEW  YORK,  May  2,  1861. 
COLONEL  LEFFERTS. 

SIR,  —  Before  receiving  your  letter,  one  hundred  recruits  had  been 
selected,  and  arrangements  made  with  General  Sandford  ibr  their  trans 
portation,  and  Colonel  Stevens  concluded  that  it  would  be  impossible  to 
disturb  the  arrangement  without  creating  a  dissatisfaction  that  it  would 
be  better  to  avoid  ;  they  have  been  under  drill  by  Lieutenant  Vermilye, 
Captain  Farrar,  Mr.  Easton,  and  Mr.  Tyng,  and  are  considerably  ad 
vanced  in  "  war's  dread  art."  Four  gentlemen  of  the  Engineer  Corps 
stated  that  you  needed  fifty  men  at  once  for  the  Second  Company  of 
Engineers,  and  we  concluded  that  you  could  dispose  of  the  one  hundred 
now  going  forward  without  difficult). 

The  organization  of  the  National  Guard  Reserve  is  very  satisfactory. 
There  are  now  something  like  six  hundred  enrolled,  and  the  drilling  of 
the  companies  is  carried  on  regularly. 

With  respect,  yours  truly, 

ASHER  TAYLOR,  Adjutant  of  N.  G. 

COLONEL  LEFFERTS  TO  COLONEL  STEVENS. 

CAMP  CAMERON,  WASHINGTON,  May  5,  1861. 

MY  DEAR  COLONEL,  —  I  have  written  twice  to  you.  In  one  of  my 
letters  I  said  we  would  not  receive  any  more  recruits,  except  some  forty 
or  fifty  to  complete  the  Second  Company  of  artillery.  One  of  my 
members  has  a  telegraph  to-day,  saying  that  fifty  men  are  waiting  for 
transportation,  to  join  the  corps  referred  to.  I  have  no  letter  from  you 
in  reference  to  this  matter,  but  I  have  telegraphed  and  written  to  Gen 
eral  Sandford,  requesting  him  to  furnish  transportation,  which  I  hope 
he  will  do ;  if  not,  I  think  Paymaster  Kemp  will  arrange  it 

I  am  sorry  to  see,  by  the  papers,  that  the  President  has  requested  our 


CAMP    CAMERON.  181 

Governor  to  stop  any  more  troops  coming  forward.     My  own  idea  is 

that  we  want  fifty  thousand  men  here 

Yours  truly, 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Colonel. 

ADJUTANT  TAYLOR  TO  COLONEL  LEFFERTS. 

NATIONAL  GUARD  RESERVE,  NEW  YORK,  May  7, 1861. 
COLONEL  LEFFERTS. 

DEAR  SIR,  —  Since  mine  of  2d  instant,  General  Sandford  has  de 
clared  peremptorily  that  no  more  men  shall  receive  transportation  to 
the  regiment,  except  furlough  men,  returning.  Some  few  of  our  re 
cruits,  we  have  reason  to  believe,  have  shipped  through,  and  are,  or 
soon  will  be,  with  you. 

There  are  about  fifty  who  have  applied  for  permission  to  enter  the 
artillery  companies,  some  of  them  have  straggled  along  with  Sergeant 
Law,  and  the  remainder  await  report  from  him  of  their  admission  as 
members  of  the  company,  when  they  will  be  pushed  forward  by  any 
way  that  may  offer,  leaving  sixty  others  awaiting  your  further  order. 
They  are  so  impatient  for  service  that  we  cannot  hold  them,  and  it 
is  very  probable  that  some  of  them  have  already  found  their  way  to  your 
colony.  The  selection  of  the  fifty  has  been  made  by  Lieutenant  Dela- 

mater  of  the  Troop 

Respectfully  yours, 

ASHER  TAYLOR,  Mil.  Sec.  N.  G.  R. 

COLONEL  L.  W.  STEVENS  TO  COLONEL  LEFFERTS. 

NEW  YORK,  May  9,  1861. 

DEAR  COLONEL,  —  This  will  be  handed  to  you  by  Mr.  Tyng  of  the 
Eighth  Company,  who  goes  out  in  charge  of  the  artillery  company  for 
whom  he  has  acted  as  drill  sergeant  during  their  detention  here,  and  a 
most  valuable  man  he  has  proved  himself. 

General  Sandford  had  promised  to  forward  forty  men,  but  flatly  re 
fused  to  send  any  more.  Upon  the  whole,  we  found  so  much  red-tapeism, 
that,  finding  this  steamer  ready  to  leave  with  stores  and  an  empty  cabin, 
we  arranged  to  send  them  by  her  at  $12  each,  of  which  the  men  have 
paid  $5  each,  and  we  shall  raise  the  balance  "by  hook  or  by  crook." 

We  have  twenty  or  thirty  more  first-rate  men  on  hand,  ready  and 
anxious  to  go  forward  as  soon  as  you  say  the  word ;  we  have  not  and 
shall  not  recruit  any  more  until  you  direct  us  to  do  so. 

I  am  writing  in  haste,  but  have  time  to  say,  success  and  prosperity  to 
you  and  the  corps. 

Yours  very  truly, 

L.  W.  STEVENS,  Colonel  elect  N.  G.  R. 


182  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

LIEUTENANT  KEMP  TO  COLONEL  LEFFERTS. 

NEW  YORK,  May  10,  1861 

DEAR  COLONEL, —  Your  letter  ordering  forward  sixty  artillerists  I 
received,  and  yesterday  sent  you  a  telegram  saying  they  would  sail  per 
steamer  Matanzas  at  5  p.  M.  On  the  minute  they  were  on  board. 
Colonel  Stevens  has  been  very  efficient  in  this  matter,  so  has  Friend 
Schultz.  We  divided  up  the  work  and  it  went  ahead.  It  has  again 
been  my  misfortune  to  find  my  movements  under  your  orders  opposed 
by  General  Sandford.  He  would  only  give  a  pass  for  forty  men,  and 
those  he  made  arrangements  for  on  board  Empire  City,  as  per  enclosed 
order,  which  please  retain.  I  showed  him  your  letter :  he  replied  he 
could  send  but  forty.  The  sixty  men  were  all  ready  waiting  at  armory. 
.  .  .  .  T  hunted  around  the  docks,  found  the  steamer  Matanzas  had 
been  chartered  by  government  (except  cabin).  She  had  provisions  the 
day  before  for  one  hundred  passengers  from  Matanzas,  but  the  govern 
ment  took  her  in  a  hurry.  So  her  provisions,  poultry  in  ice,  &c.,  &c., 
were  all  on  board.  The  owners  agreed  to  take  my  party,  cabin  fare, 
good  state-rooms,  &c.,  for  $  12  a  man.  I  went  back  to  the  armory,  told 
my  story,  and  suggested  to  the  men  if  they  wanted  to  go  speedily,  com 
fortably,  and  be  well  cared  for,  if  they  would  pay  $  5  per  man  I  would 
see  to  paying  the  balance.  The  vote  was  taken,  and  every  man  voted 
yes.  We  hope  to  be  able  to  pay  the  balance  without  calling  on  regi 
mental  funds.  I  cannot  speak  in  too  high  terms  of  Mr.  Tyng,  who  has 
worked  day  and  night  to  get  these  men  into  shape.  At  the  moment 
of  departure  I  found  sixty-eight  on  board.  I  understand  the  surplus  are 
approved  by  companies,  and  are  going  to  run  the  risk  of  being  wanted 

and  elected 

Yours  truly, 

A.  KEMP. 

On  the  lltli  of  May,  Surgeon  Cheesman  suggested  in 
writing  to  Colonel  Lefferts  that  "  a  guard  be  kept  over  all 
the  wells  from  which  the  camp  is  supplied  with  water." 
This  recommendation  was  carried  into  effect,  and,  in  ad 
dition,  all  hucksters  and  petty  traders  were  forbidden  to 
enter  the  camp  without  a  pass  given  by  the  Colonel. 

While  at  Camp  Cameron,  the  regiment  received  from  Mr. 
Rutherford  Stuyvesant,  a  member  of  the  corps,  two  twelve- 
pounder  howitzers,  with  equipment  and  ammunition  com 
plete.  Accompanying  the  gift  was  the  following  letter :  — 


CAMP   CAMERON.  183 

175  SECOND  AVENUE,  NEW  YORK,  May  3,  1861. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Colonel  Seventh  Regiment,  N.  Y.  S.  M. 

SIR,  —  Being  deprived,  by  ill  health,  of  the  great  pleasure  of  sharing 
in  the  dangers  and  fatigues  so  well  endured,  and  in  the  credit,  so  well 
merited,  of  the  Seventh,  I  desire  to  testify  my  admiration  for  them 
as  soldiers,  and  my  affection  for  them  as  comrades,  as  well  as  my  devo 
tion  to  the  sacred  cause  for  which  they  are  armed.  With  this  intent,  I 
have  procured  and  forwarded  to  your  address  a  pair  of  mounted  how 
itzers,  with  their  equipment  and  ammunition,  which  I  desire  to  presenl 
to  the  regiment,  with  my  best  wishes. 

I  am,  very  respectfully,  yours,  &c., 

RUTHERFORD  STUYVESANT. 

These  howitzers  had  some  difficulty  in  reaching  their 
destination,  but  were  finally  received  and  put  in  battery 
with  the  pieces  originally  brought  forward.  Under  date 
of  New  York,  May  9,  1861,  General  Sandford  wrote  to 
Colonel  Lefferts  on  this  subject  as  follows  :  — 

"  I  sent  the  two  howitzers  presented  to  your  regiment  under  the  care 
of  Brigade-Major  Smith  (1st  Brigade)  to  Annapolis. 

"  I  have  just  seen  a  letter  from  Major  Smith  to  General  Spicer,  asking 
him  to  inform  me  that  Colonel  Abel  Smith,  commanding  the  Thirteenth 
Regiment,  had  taken  possession  of  these  howitzers  and  declined  to  for 
ward  them,  saying  he  needed  them  at  Annapolis. 

"  I  have  written  to  Colonel  Smith  to-day  to  say  that  he  must  send  them 
to  you  at  once.  If  there  is  any  delay  in  so  doing,  please  inform  me. 

"  I  have  a  general  order  not  to  forward  recruits,  but  I  have  taken  the 
responsibility  of  sending  forty  for  these  howitzers  to-day  by  the  Empire 
City." 

About  the  same  time  (May)  Colonel  Lefferts  telegraphed 
to  New  York  to  obtain  four  more  pieces  of  artillery  for 
the  use  of  the  regiment.  Through  the  efforts  of  Mr.  J.  J. 
Astor,  Jr.,  who  took  the  liveliest  interest  in  the  regiment, 
an  appropriation  for  two  rifled  twelve-pounders  was  made 
by  the  Union  Defence  Committee ;  and  the  pieces  were  for 
warded,  together  with  400  rounds  of  shot,  400  of  shell, 
800  cartridges,  1,200  caps. 

Many  other  donations  for  the  campaign  came  to  the  regi- 


184  HISTORY   OF  THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

ment  at  Camp  Cameron.  From  the  "  New  York  Medical 
Association  for  the  Supply  of  Lint,  Bandages,  &c.  to  the 
Army,"  located  in  the  Spingler  Institute  building,  came  a 
box  of  lint  and  bandages,  "  prepared,"  said  the  note  of  Dr. 
G-.  M.  Smith,  who  forwarded  it,  "  by  a  few  young  ladies, 
for  the  Hospital  Department  of  your  regiment."  At  the 
same  time  (May  11)  the  first  contribution  from  one  of  the 
"  Ladies'  Havelock  Associations  "  of  New  York  reached 
the  regiment,  —  a  thousand  and  more  white  linen  cap- 
covers  of  the  British  pattern,  so  famous  in  India  and  the 
Crimea,  worn  also  by  the  French  at  Solferino.  Colonel 
Lefferts  promptly  wrote  to  the  "  Ladies  of  the  Havelock 
Association,  Mrs.  George  T.  Stevens,  Mrs.  John  C.  Peters, 
and  others,"  in  acknowledgment:  "  On  behalf  of  the  Sev 
enth  Regiment,  I  thank  you  for  the  beautiful  and  service 
able  present  of  one  thousand  '  Havelocks.'  They  add  so 
materially  to  the  comfort  of  the  men  to  whom  you  have 
sent  them,  that,  could  you  see  how  eagerly  they  have  been 
sought  and  worn,  you  would  feel,  I  doubt  not,  well  repaid 
for 'the  labor  they  have  cost." 

In  the  Daylight's  rich  cargo  was  a  supply  of  loose,  dark 
gray,  knit  worsted  jackets,  the  gift  of  Mr.  W.  H.  Aspin- 
wall  to  the  regiment.  These  excellent  presents  were  dis 
tributed  amongst  the  men  after  reaching  Camp  Cameron, 
and  proved  exceedingly  comfortable.  The  jackets  were  in 
stantly  christened  "  Aspinwalls"  by  the  regiment.  "  They 
came  to  hand,"  wrote  Colonel  Lefferts,  "  at  the  very  time 
when  I  was  considering  the  propriety  of  ordering  a  quantity 
of  flannel  blouses.  You  have  thus  anticipated  our  wants. 
They  all  arrived  safely,  and  will  be  distributed  to-morrow, 
when  we  get  into  camp."  The  "  Aspinwall "  and  the 
"  Havelock  "  made  a  remarkable  change  in  the  appearance 
and  comfort  of  the  troops,  and  the  experiences  of  campaign 
taught  other  practical  devices  and  variations  in  uniform. 
In  their  new  costume,  stalwart,  hearty,  and  sun-browned, 


CAMP   CAMERON.  185 

the  regiment  would  hardly  have  been  recognized  by  those 
accustomed  only  to  the  casual  parades  of  the  city,  to  un- 
tanned  faces,  and  stiff  gray  uniform.  "  No  more  tight- 
bodied  dress-coats,"  writes  one  member,  luxuriating  in  the 
cosey  freedom  of  his  fatigue  suit ;  "  no  more  pretty  white 
cross-belts  to  hamper  us  down  ;  no  more  heavy,  stiff  caps  ; 
no  more  fashionable  pantaloons.  Give  us  a  little  time 
after  we  get  home,  —  i.  e.  if  we  do  get  there,  — and  we  will 
show  you  a  serviceable,  neat,  and  inexpensive  uniform." 

Besides  material  gifts  and  supplies,  the  regiment  received 
abundance  of  kindly  messages,  —  grateful  letters  from  so 
cieties  and  individuals,  from  other  regiments,  from  towns, 
from  patriotic  citizens  and  admiring  friends.  Before  the 
writer  many  such  documents  are  on  file,  which  it  would 
hardly  be  tasteful  (even  were  there  space)  to  insert.  A 
dozen  odes  and  sonnets,  of  various  lengths,  dedicated  to 
the  regiment,  commemorating  one  or  another  feature  of  its 
achievements  or  adventures,  show  that  the  bards  of  the 
country  were  as  busy  as  the  press  in  crowning  it  with 
laurels.  Music  also  was  composed  in  honor  of  its  march. 
A  terrible  struggle  soon  gave  occasion  to  patriots  and  poets 
and  historians  to  bring  their  best  words  to  commemorate 
the  deeds  of  thousands  upon  thousands  of  patriot  heroes, 
and,  among  them,  many  a  gallant  soldier  of  the  Seventh,  — 

"  To  deck  their  hearse 
Who  in  warm  life-blood  wrote  their  nobler  verse." 

But,  meanwhile,  attention  was  largely  concentrated  on 
the  regiments  that  pioneered  the  path  to  Washington,  and 
first  sprang  to  save  the  capital  from  dishonor. 
j^JBefore  the  regiment  had  been  many  days  at  Camp  Cam 
eron,  its  members  began  to  deVote  themselves  to  the  coun 
try  "  for  the  war  "  ;  and  as  soon  as  the  President  called 
for  three  years'  volunteers,  one  gallant  soldier  after  another 
gave  himself  wholly  to  the  good  cause.  The  first  officer  to 
leave  the  regiment  was  the  brave  and  accomplished  Farn- 


186  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

ham,  First  Lieutenant  of  Company  B.,  who,  having  been 
elected  to  the  lieutenant-colonelcy  of  Ellsworth's  famous 
regiment,  resigned  his  lieutenancy  on  the  7th  of  May. 
Two  days  later,  Captain  Schuyler  Hamilton  was  appointed 
military  secretary,  with  the  rank  of  lieutenant-colonel, 
upon  the  staff  of  the  Lieutenant-General.  "  I  shall  al 
ways,"  wrote  Colonel  Hamilton  to  Colonel  Lefferts,  in  ask 
ing  to  be  discharged  by  promotion,  "  esteem  it  an  honor  to 
have  marched  with  the  Seventh,  and  trust  that  I  may  still 
consider  myself  an  honorary  member  of  the  corps  whose 
uniform  I  shall  continue  to  wear."  The  official  order  from 
General  Scott's  head-quarters  ran  as  follows  :  — 

"  Captain  Schuyler  Hamilton,  Aide-de-Camp  to  the  General-in- 
Chief  during  the  Mexican  War,  and  now  a  member  of  the  Seventh  Regi 
ment  of  New  York  Volunteers,  is  hereby  again  appointed  to  the  staff  of 
the  General-in-Chief,  as  a  military  secretary  with  the  rank  of  lieuten 
ant-colonel,  under  Section  16  of  the  act  approved  March  3,  1857.  He 
will  be  obeyed  and  respected  accordingly." 

These  depletions  gradually  took  away  from  the  regiment, 
even  at  the  outbreak  of  the  war,  many  of  its  best-drilled  and 
most  capable  men  ;  and  in  a  double  sense  General  McDow 
ell's  word  was  fast  proving  true,  —  "  it  is  a  regiment  of  offi 
cers."  The  talk  of  commissions  was  one  of  the  leading 
subjects  of  conversation,  and  a  letter  dated  May  21st  says  : 
"  Five  men  from  a  single  company,  only  one  above  the 
position  of  private,  and  he  a  sergeant,  have  received  com 
missions  in  one  regiment  alone,  —  three  of  the  rank  of  cap 
tain.  One  brigadier  commandant  wants  twelve  captains 
from  the  Seventh." 

Mention  has  already  been  made  of  the  valuable  services 
rendered  to  the  regiment  by* Colonel  (later  Major-General) 
Samuel  R.  Curtis,  a  volunteer  aid  on  Colonel  Lefferts's 
staff.  On  the  4th  of  May,  that  officer  wrote  to  Colonel  Lef 
ferts  :  "  I  shall  take  great  pleasure  in  reporting  myself  to 
you  to-morrow  morning.  I  have  been  on  the  '  sick-list ' 


CAMP    CAMKKON.  187 

for  forty-six  hours,  but  now  I  am  myself  again."  Colonel 
Lefferts  responded  by  informing  him  of  his  election  as  an 
honorary  member  of  the  Eighth  Company  (Brevet-Colonel 
Shumway  commanding),  the  senior  company  of  the  regi 
ment.  "  It  is  done,"  he  wrote,  "  from  the  great  respect  in 
which  you  are  held,  and  the  love  they  bear  you,  while  I  per 
sonally  desire  to  express  my  thanks  for  your  valuable  aid 
and  counsel  since  you  joined  us  at  Philadelphia.  As  a 
member  of  our  corps,  our  doors  will  always  be  open  to  you, 
and  a  hand  of  welcome  extended."  Colonel  Curtis  wrote 
in  reply :  "  Please  make  my  acceptance  known  to  the 
Eighth  Company,  with  my  grateful  acknowledgments  for 
the  distinguished  honor ;  and  be  assured  also  of  my  hearty 
thanks  to  you  personally,  and  to  the  officers  and  men  of 
your  regiment  universally,  for  the  courtesy  and  kindness 
shown  me  during  the  march  and  since  we  arrived  in  this 
city.  It  will  be  a  great  pleasure  to  me  hereafter  to  cher 
ish  the  recollection  of  our  acquaintance,  and  to  remain 
associated  as  an  honorary  member  of  your  distinguished 
corps." 

But  the  regiment,  after  a  few  weeks  at  Camp  Cameron, 
began  to  be  eager  for  more  active  work.  A  letter  in  the 
New  York  Tribune,  dated  from  the  camp,  May  21st,  very 
well  expresses  this  anxiety  in  saying  :  — 

"  It  is  a  curious  fact,  but  none  the  less  true  on  that  account,  that  we 
have  to  look  for  news  almost  exclusively  to  the  New  York  papers,  and 
that,  too,  not  only  in  relation  to  items  of  general  interest,  but  actually 
in  reference  to  our  own  movements. 

"  The  rumors  about  the  camp  would,  I  judge,  average  about  fifty  per 
diem.  One  man,  who  has  been  all  night  on  guard,  will  rush  into  his  tent 
at  about  5  A.  M.,  and  surprise  his  half-awakened  tent-mates  by  an 
oracular  announcement :  '  Well,  boys,  we  are  going  to  march  to  Harper's 
Ferry.'  '  When  ? '  asks  one.  '  Who  says  so  ? '  inquires  a  less  san 
guine  man.  '  Are  you  joking?  '  asks  a  third  ;  and  a  hasty  but  emphatic 
4  Don't  know,'  answers  all  three  at  once.  And  then  follow  specula 
tions,  surmises,  doubts,  expressions  of  anxious,  eager  delight  at  the  pros 
pect  of  getting  something  to  do,  instead  of  lying  idle  here,  growing  fat. 


188  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

It  is  useless  to  attempt  to  conceal  the  fact  that  the  regiment  is  abso 
lutely  aching  for  some  work.  I  never  saw  in  my  life  a  happier,  more 
contented  set  of  men  than  those  who  left  Annapolis  as  advance  detach 
ment,  for  then  they  really  had  good  reason  to  believe,  I  may  almost  say 
to  knoiu,  that  there  was  actual  work,  serious  work,  before  them.  But 
now  for  the  want  of  excitement,  —  I  do  not  say  of  work  in  the  way  of 
constant  drills,  —  the  men  are  going  into  all  sorts  of  quiet  deviltry,  and 

some  of  it  not  so  very  quiet  either 

"  There  is  the  inevitable  question  of  being  sent  home.  '  Orders  will 
be  out  to-morrow ' ;  '  No,  they  won't ' ;  *  I  heard  that  we  were  to  go 
home  next  week/  '  Two  months  longer,'  sings  out  another  man. 
'  What,  and  do  nothing  ? '  Then  to  while  away  spare  minutes,  I  can 
not  say  hours,  come  bayonet  fencing,  gymnastic  exercises,  games  of 
ball,  mock  parades,  funerals  of  salt  junk,  etc." 

The  time  for  the  "forward  movement"  was  nearer  at 
hand  than  this  writer  anticipated.  When  and  how  it  was 
made  we  shall  now  proceed  to  narrate.  But  first,  however, 
we  must  record  an  interesting  event  which  immediately 
preceded  it. 

Many  ladies  of  New  York,  the  kindred  of  its  members, 
had  joined  in  making  the  regiment  a  beautiful  silk  flag, 
—  a  national  flag,  perfectly  simple,  the  staff  of  lance-wood, 
with  a  silver  spear-head.  The  colors  were  sent  to  the 
regiment  through  Mr.  Frederick  Prime  of  Edgewood,  West- 
chester  County,  New  York,  at  whose  suggestion  Adjutant- 
General  Thomas  was  requested  to  make  the  formal  presen 
tation.  On  the  day  originally  appointed  for  the  ceremony 
the  colors  did  not  arrive  ;  but  on  the  23d  of  May  the  pre 
sentation  took  place  at  twilight  of '  a  beautiful  day,  after 
dress  parade,  in  presence  of  the  President  and  his  family, 
and  five  thousand  enthusiastic  spectators. 

A  salute  of  thirteen  guns  announced  the  arrival  of  the 
President,  who,  accompanied  by  General  Thomas  and 
Colonel  Leiferts,  inspected  the  regimental  line,  and  then 
returned  to  his  barouche.  The  regiment  then  formed 
square,  and  General  Thomas,  advancing,  banner  in  hand, 
said  :  — 


CAMP    CAMERON.  189 

"SOLDIERS  or  THE  GALLANT  SEVENTH,  —  I  stand  before  you  this 
day  as  the  representative  of  a  large  number  of  the  ladies  of  New  York, 
to  present  to  you  this  beautiful  banner,  prepared  by  them.  I  hold  in 
my  hand  a  book,  with  lines  of  dedication,  containing  the  autographs  of 
one  hundred  and  seventeen  ladies.  Why  this  honor  has  fallen  on  me, 
when  others  in  higher  station  and  more  competent  to  perform  the  pleas 
ing  duty  could  readily  have  been  chosen,  I  know  not,  except  that,  hav 
ing  for  the  last  few  years  been  stationed  in  their  city,  I  thus  became 
known  to  them,  and  they  considered  me  almost  a  New-Yorker.  This 
crowning  act  of  theirs,  however,  makes  me  almost  altogether  a  New- 
Yorker.  It  seems  quite  superfluous  for  me  to  speak  of  the  Seventh,  for 
its  fame  as  an  excelsior  regiment  is  known  far  and  wide  ;  yet  still  there 
are  some  incidents  which  I  cannot  overlook.  That  revered  chieftain, 
the  greatest  captain  of  the  age,  near  whose  person  it  has  been  my  hap 
piness  to  serve,  has  repeatedly  said,  '  The  Seventh  is  a  national  regi 
ment.'  Its  organization  is  complete,  its  drill  perfect,  its  personnel  the 
flower  of  our  New  York  youth.  But  to  show  its  title  to  being  consid 
ered  a  national  regiment.  When  the  State  of  Virginia  desired  to 
receive  the  remains  of  one  of  her  sons,  a  departed  President,  this  regi 
ment  came  forward  and  escorted  the  honored  remains  to  the  capital  of 
that  State.  And  when  honor  was  to  be  done  in  the  dedication  of  a 
statue  of  the  Father  of  his  Country  here  in  the  city  bearing  his  name, 
and  which  he  founded,  the  Seventh  was  the  regiment  sent  for  that  duty. 
And  when  the  government  of  our  beloved  country  was  in  danger  of 
overthrow,  and  its  capital  likely  to  be  seized  by  traitors,  the  Seventh, 
on  the  first  note  of  alarm,  sprung  to  arms,  and  hastened  to  the  place 
of  danger  to  help  to  defend  everything  most  sacred  to  a  true  loyal 
American.  The  effect  of  this  movement  no  one  can  estimate  so  well 
as  those  of  us  present  in  our  capital.  Our  General-in-Chief,  with  the 
approval  of  the  administration,  had  hastily  assembled  such  a  body  of 
Regulars  as  were  within  reach,  and  enrolled  several  companies  of  local 
militia,  inadequate  in  numbers,  but  ready  to  do  their  best.  At  this 
time  we  were  surrounded  by  enemies,  with  traitors  in  our  midst,  and, 
worst  of  all,  those  of  my  own  profession,  on  whom  the  government  had 
a  right  to  look  for  support.  Men  taken  in  their  youth,  educated,  fos 
tered,  sustained,  in  this  time  of  our  need  began  to  fall  on  every  hand, 
until  we  knew  not  whom  to  trust.  Our  war-chief  rose  in  sublimity, 
and  made  preparations  for  defence.  Then  came  that  great  upheav 
ing  of  the  North  and  West  which  satisfied  us  that  the  government 
would  be  sustained,  and  every  loyal  heart  throbbed  with  gratitude  to 
the  God  of  battles  who  had  provided  us  deliverance,  —  that  Supreme 
Being  who  '  ruleth  in  the  heavens  and  on  the  earth,  and  doeth  all 


190  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

things  well.'  Then  it  was  that  you  came  forward,  with  bayonets  far 
more  in  number  than  you  ever  paraded  on  any  gala-day.  And  when, 
after  great  difficulties  and  delays,  you  reached  the  capital,  what  a  thrill 
pervaded  our  loyal  population.  In  every  direction  you  could  hear, 
4  The  Seventh  have  come.'  The  anxious  week,  and  especially  the 
dark  Sunday,  had  passed,  and  we  felt  secure.  This  beautiful  emblem 
which  I  now  present  is  the  work  of  many  loved  ones  of  your  home. 
They  have  devoted  the  work  of  their  hands  to  you,  and  many  prayers 
for  God's  protecting  favor  have  been  breathed  over  its  folds,  and  many 
that  God  give  you  and  them  his  Holy  Spirit  for  the  dear  Redeemer's 
sake.  I  am  especially  charged  to  tell  you,  that  if  your  country  calls 
you  to  action,  it  is  their  earnest  wish  that  their  flag  should  be  carried 
in  your  ranks,  for,  with  these  colors  in  your  midst,  they  will  feel  almost 
as  if  they,  too,  were  defending  the  sacred  cause  of  liberty  and  right.  This 
great  war-cloud  coming  down  from  the  North  and  West  will  soon  burst, 
and  burst  it  must,  over  the  South,  and  you  may  soon  be  called  to  unfurl 
this  very  banner.  And  if  so,  recollect  that,  though  you  number  twelve 
hundred  and  fifty,  there  is  a  particular  stitch  dedicated  by  fair  hands  to 
each  one  of  you ;  and  I  charge  you  most  solemnly  never  to  let  that  stitch 
be  dishonored  by  a  traitorous  foe,  nor  suffer  it  to  be  trailed  in  the  dust.  I 
will  now  read  the  lines  of  dedication,  and  place  the  banner  in  your  hands." 

These  were  the  lines  of  dedication  :  — 

"  The  flag  of  our  country !     What  deeper  assurance 
Of  sympathy,  honor,  and  trust  could  we  send  ? 
The  crown  of  our  fathers'  unflinching-  endurance, 

'T  is  the  emblem  of  all  you  have  sworn  to  defend,  — 
Of  freedom  and  Union,  with  honor  intwined,  — 
The  cause  of  the  nation,  of  God  and  mankind."  , 

The  bearer  of  the  flag  then  handed  it  to  Colonel  Lefferts, 
who  unfolded  it,  and  held  it  while  the  band  played  the 
"  Star-Spangled  Banner."  The  Colonel  then  gave  it  to 
the  ensign  of  the  regiment,  and  replied  as  follows :  — 

"  GENERAL,  —  The  history  of  all  heroic  ages  bears  testimony  to  the 
devotion  with  which  the  regimental  colors  are  always  regarded.  The 
true  soldier  turns  to  them  in  more  than  Eastern  devotion.  They  are 
his  rally  ing-point  of  bat'le  ;  and  where  the  clashing  of  steel  tells  of  the 
deadliest  struggle,  its  honored  folds  float  proudly  in  the  breeze.  To  it 
the  straining  eye  of  the  soldier  ever  turns  when  it  is  obscured  for  a  mo 
ment  by  the  smoke  of  the  conflict,  and  he  gathers  new  courage  from  the 
light  of  his  advancing  standard,  and  where  that  leads  he  will  follow. 


CAMP    CAMERON.  191 

And  if  this  emblem  of  his  country's  glory  wavers  or  is  stricken  down, 
he  rushes  to  the  rescue,  as  though  with  its  fall  would  be  cloven  down  his 
country's  honor  and  renown.  To-day,  in  this  hour  of  peril  and  great 
events,  where  the  destinies  of  centuries  are  crowded  into  the  narrow 
space  of  days  and  hours,  the  fair  daughters  of  our  honored  State  present 
through  you,  General,  an  ensign  destined,  we  hope,  to  be  not  only  the 
rallying-point  of  my  command,  but  the  symbol  of  our  country's  perma 
nence  and  glory.  In  this  our  hour  of  danger  an  effulgence  rays  out 
from  its  stripes  like  the  halo  of  glory  that  encircles  the  sainted  head, 
while  the  stars  from  their  field  of  azure  blue  reflect  the  light  of  harmony 
and  peace  to  those  who  recognize  its  supremacy  and  power.  But  to 
the  contemner  and  the  traitor  they  blaze  with  wrath,  and,  as  of  old, 
1  the  stars  will  fight  against  Sisera.'  Most  gratefully  then  do  we  ten 
der  our  sincere  thanks  to  the  fair  donors  of  New  York ;  and,  while  we 
accept  the  beautiful  and  appropriate  gift,  we  pledge  ourselves  that  with 
our  consent  it  shall  never  falter  or  fall  before  any  foe,  foreign  or  domes 
tic,  that  shall  assail  the 

'  Land  of  the  free  and  the  home  of  the  brave.' 

"  For  your  kind  presentation,  and  the  manner  in  which  you  have 
alluded  to  my  command,  you  have  our  joint  and  sincere  thanks." 

Nine  hearty  cheers  were  given  by  the  regiment,  as  the  color- 
bearer  took  the  colors,  and  passed  to  his  post  in  the  ranks. 
The  following  letters  relate  to  the  flag  :  — 

I. 

COLONEL  LEFFERTS. 

MY  DEAR  SIR,  —  Some  threescore  young  ladies,  relatives  of  the  young 
men  of  your  command,  have  with  their  own  hands  prepared  a  silk  flag, 
which  they  very  much  desire  should  be  presented  to  the  regiment  during 
its  absence  from  our  city  on  its  present  sacred  mission.  I  am  requested 
to  ask  your  permission  that  it  may  be  sent  to  you  (it  is  a  national 
flag,  and  perfectly  simple,  the  staff  made  of  lance-wood,  with  a  silver 
spear-head),  in  the  hope  that  it  may  be  used  on  all  proper  occasions, 
and  not  kept  merely  for  parade.  The  contributions  made  by  the  young 
ladies  exceed  the  cost  of  the  silk  and  mounting  of  the  flag,  and  they 
request  you  to  receive  and  dispose  of  this  money  for  such  useful  ends  as 
to  your  individual  judgment  may  deem  advisable. 

I  remain,  with  respect,  yours,  &c., 

FREDERICK  PRIME. 

PELHAM  POST-OFFICE,  WESTCHESTER  Co.,  N.  Y., 
EUGEWOOD,  May  5,  1861. 


192  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

II. 

EDGEWOOD,  May  10, 1861. 
COLONEL  LEFFERTS. 

MY  DEAR  SIR,  ....  Your  suggestion  as  to  a  record  of  the  names 
of  the  donors  will  be  met  by  a  small  volume  containing  the  autographs 
of  the  contributors,  and  opening  with  a  few  lines  of  presentation. 
Many  of  the  names  subscribed  are  peculiarly  associated  with  the  Revo 
lutionary  history  of  our  city.  The  first  signatures  are  those  of  the 
grand-daughters  of  John  Jay,  Alexander  Hamilton,  and  General  Clark- 
son,  aid  to  General  Washington,  and  of  the  daughter  of  Comfort  Sands, 
who  was  the  last  surviving  member  of  the  Committee  of  Safety  of  the 
city.  The  intention  was  to  send  the  flag  to  you,  but  if  you  prefer  that 
some  other  person  should  act  for  the  donors,  I  would  suggest  Adjutant- 
General  Thomas  of  the  United  States  Army,  unless  you  deem  it  in 
expedient  to  make  the  request.  I  enclose  a  note  from  my  daughter 
to  General  Thomas,  which  you  will  please  read  and  use  at  your  dis 
cretion 

Yours,  &c., 

FREDERICK  PRIME. 


THE  SEVENTH  IN   VIRGINIA. 


193 


CHAPTER  XI. 


THE   SEVENTH   IN    VIRGINIA. 

ITH  the  record  of  this  last 
charming  and  impressive 
scene,  let  us  gather  togeth 
er  and  break  the  thread  of 
our  story  of  Camp  Cameron 
life,  passing  by  numberless 
details  of  its  commingled 
duties  and  pastimes. 

One  feeling  alone  marred 
the  delight  of.  camp  ex 
perience,  —  impatience  for 
more  strenuous  action.  It 
was  an  impatience  shared, 
however,  by  every  patriot 
in  the  land,  —  a  fatal  im 
patience,  resulting  in  the 
repulse  at  Manassas.  The 
daily  departure  of  comrades 
as  officers  of  new  regiments 

created  a  feverish  anxiety  in  others  to  follow  their  example. 
Everywhere  the  wish  was  for  one  more  tour  of  service  in 
the  field  as  a  regiment,  one  expedition  into  the  enemy's 
country,  before  the  thirty  days  should  expire,  and  then  a 
quick  return  to  New  York,  a  sight  of  friends  and  families 
so  suddenly  left,  of  business  so  suddenly  dropped,  and  then 
and  there  deliberate  preparation  for  the  future.  As  for  the 
immediate  object  of  the  march,  the  safety  of  Washington, 

13 


194  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

that  had  been  accomplished,  since  twenty  regiments  had 
already  followed  the  Seventh  over  the  road  from  Annap 
olis  to  Washington.  "  You  went  to  Washington,"  wrote 
Paymaster  Kemp  from  New  York  to  one  of  the  officers,  as 
early  as  May  13,  "  with  the  positive  understanding  (and 
this  position  is  proven  by  General  Sandford's  order)  that 
you  were  to  hurry  011  to  the  capital,  to  be  relieved  as  soon 
as  a  sufficient  body  of  troops  should  be  there  to  take  your 
place.  You  have,  or  will  have  in  a  day  or  two,  more  than 
enough.  Thousands  are  here  quarrelling  because  they  are 
not  sent  forward ;  our  city  requires  you  back.  In  these 
exciting  times,  a  spark  may  set  the  city  in  a  blaze.  We 
here  are  without  arms,  without  a  nucleus  to  rally  around  in 
case  of  riot.  We  all  suppose  our  wars  are  to  be  sustained 
either  by  volunteers  or  by  draft.  Should  our  country  need 
you  again  hereafter,  I  do  not  question  that  our  boys  would 
be  ready,  as  they  always  are,  to  answer  any  demand  upon 
their  services." 

Nevertheless,  the  fact  that  their  term  of  service  was  soon 
to  expire,  and  that  the  o*bject  of  their  march  had  been  ac 
complished,  did  not  diminish  the  feverish  impatience,  even 
of  the  hundreds  who  were  preparing  to  return  to  the  war, 
for  one  more  "forward  movement"  as  a  regiment  before 
the  muster  out. 

This  desire  was,  happily,  to  be  gratified.  To  a  few  of  the 
throng  that  witnessed  the  flag  presentation  just  described 
the  ceremony  had  a  deep  significance.  On  that  day,  Colo 
nel  Lefierts  had  received  the  following  order :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  DEPARTMENT  WASHINGTON,  May  23,  1861. 
COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  New  York  Seventh  Infantry. 

SIR, — Please  have  your  regiment  at  the  head  of  Long  Bridge  by  two 
o'clock  to-night,  and  let  them  march  without  music  or  noise,  and  report 
to  Colonel  Heintzelman,  United  States  Army. 

MANSFIELD,  B.  G.  §•  Com'd'g. 

I  shall  be  glad  to  see  you  at  my  office  immediately. 


THE   SEVENTH  IN  VIRGINIA.  195 

Such  was  the  initial  order,  so  far  as  concerns  the  Seventh 
Regiment,  of  General  Scott's  famous  occupation  of  Arling 
ton  Heights,  —  a  movement  without  which  Washington 
would  have  fallen  a  prey  to  any  hostile  force  able  to  seize 
and  hold  these  important 'positions.  It  is  famous  in  history 
also  as  the  first  reconnoissance  in  force  of  the  war,  the  first 
forward  movement,  the  first  "  invasion "  of  the  soil  of 
Virginia.  From  that  night  there  was  war  a  V entrance . 

When  the  companies  had  been  marched  to  their  quarters 
after  the  flag  presentation,  the  captains  announced  the 
orders  they  had  received  for  the  march.  The  tumultuous 
and  long-continued  cheers,  the  joy  that  beamed  in  every 
face,  the  fire  that  flashed  in  every  eye,  told  how  eagerly 
the  news  had  been  watched  for,  and  how  sweet  was  the 
prospect  of  duty  and  danger.  "  The  instant,"  says  the 
Tribune  correspondence,  "  the  ranks  were  broken  in  the 
company  streets,  cheers  upon  cheers  arose  from  right  to 
left  at  the  joyful  intelligence."  The  Times  correspond 
ent  from  the  camp  says :  "  The  prayers  and  hopes,  the 
substance  of  all  our  songs,  have  now  a  prospect  of  a  speedy 
fruition.  At  7  P.  M.,  last  night,  when  the  captains  of 
the  different  companies  told  their  men  the  orders  they  had 
just  received  from  Colonel  Lefferts,  the  enthusiasm  and  joy 
defied  description.  It  was  not  hushed  at  6  tattoo  '  or  at 
'  taps,'  but  continued  until  each  man  stepped  forward  on 
our  beautiful  lawn,  at  twenty  minutes  after  one  this  morn 
ing Last  night  will  never  be  forgotten  by  our  Na 
tional  Guard  ;  nor  will  Washington,  or  the  entire  country, 
forget  an  event  which  marks  an  epoch  in  the  great  struggle 
which  was  really  commenced  when  the  ten  thousand  left 
Washington,  each  eager  for  the  fray,  and  all  and  every  man 
of  them  true  as  steel  to  his  God,  his  country,  and  his  starry 
flag."  No  one  knew  what  was  in  store,  whether  a  march 
or  a  battle,  a  movement  with  the  support  of  few  troops  or 
many.  It  was  enough  to  know  that  the  march  was  towards 


196  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

the  enemy,  that  every  report  and  rumor  declared  the  first 
great  blow  of  the  war  was  to  be  struck,  and  that  the  Seventh 
was  to  engage  in  the  conflict. 

Two  companies,  however,  the  Ninth  and  Tenth,  did  not 
share  the  general  exhilaration,  but  walked  about  with  rueful 
faces.  They  were  to  remain  in  charge  of  the  camp,  while 
the  eight  infantry  companies  marched,  and  "  their  disap 
pointment  and  disgust,"  says  one  letter,  "  were  immense. 
A  few  members  were  accepted  as  volunteers  in  other  com 
panies,  and  were  in  high  feather  till  their  captains  sent  a 
sergeant  through  the  camp  to  bring  in  all  stragglers."  "  It 
is  said  we  are  to  follow,"  writes  one  of  the  Ninth  Com 
pany,  "  in  charge  of  the  baggage.  I  hope  so."  "  What  a 
happy  thousand  were  the  line  companies !  "  writes  Win- 
throp.  "  How  their  suppressed  ardor  stirred  !  No  want  of 
fight  in  those  lads  !  Every  man  was  merry,  except  two 
hundred,  who  were  grim.  These  were  the  two  artillery 
companies."  -  The  following  were  Colonel  Lefferts's  in 
structions  to  Captain  Farrar,  Company  K,  dated  11  p.  M., 
May  23d  :  - 

"  Sm,  —  You  will  immediately  parade  your  company,  and  relieve  from 
further  duty  the  present  camp-guard.  As  soon  as  the  regiment  leaves 
the  ground,  all  persons  except  those  in  uniform  must  be  excluded  from 
the  camp-ground.  Any  friends  wishing  to  see  members  of  the  regiment 
can  do  so  at  the  Colonel's  head-quarters.  There  is  a  large  amount  of 
property  in  camp,  and  you  must  exercise  the  utmost  vigilance  and  care. 
You  will  have  one  prisoner  in  the  camp-ground.  He  is  to  be  held  until 
further  notice." 

The  orders  were  to  march  without  knapsacks,  in  light 
marching  order,  with  one  day's  rations  in  haversacks,  and 
forty  rounds  per  man  in  the  cartridge-boxes.  The  evening 
was  spent,  therefore,  in  distributing  rations  and  ammuni 
tion,  in  filling  canteens  and  haversacks,  in  looking  to 
muskets  and  equipments,  in  stowing  away  property  in  the 
tents,  in  packing  knapsacks  to  be  sent  on,  perhaps,  after- 


THE   SEVENTH   IN   VIRGINIA.  197 

wards,  and  in  writing  final  letters  home.  One  of  these 
letters,  from  a  member  of  the  Sixth  Company,  says  :  "  The 
rumors  are  various  and  conflicting.  The  most  reliable 
seems  to  be,  that  several  thousand  men  are  to  be  landed  at 
Alexandria  to-night.  We  may  march  by  ten  or  twelve 
o'clock.  This  may  very  probably  precipitate  a  hostile 
movement  and  open  the  fighting.  The  men  are  sending 
off  hurried  letters  and  completing  necessary  arrangements. 
All  are  very  busy.  We  only  know  and  feel  that  we  are 
doing  our  duty,  and  that  the  country  is  with  us." 

At  one  o'clock,  A.  M.,  the  companies  formed  line,  and  the 
column  noiselessly  filed  down  the  Avenue.  Was  it  for 
Harper's  Ferry  or  Alexandria  ?  The  drummers  turned  up 
the  road  to  the  former  point,  but  Colonel  Lefferts  hurried 
forward  and  moved  them  in  the  opposite  direction.  "  Al 
exandria  !  "  said  some  of  the  men ;  "  Hurrah  for  Rich 
mond!"  said  others.  "None  cared  where,"  says  one  letter, 
"  so  long  as  we  had  at  last  a  chance  for  active  duty."  Each 
carried  his  full  canteen  and  haversack,  and  his  stout  army 
blanket  rolled  and  thrown  over  the  left  shoulder,  with  the 
ends  tied  at  the  right  thigh. 

It  was  a  magnificent  summer's  night,  the  full  moon  gleam 
ing  as  lustrous  as  when,  a  month  before,  she  shone  on  the 
same  gallant  column,  forcing  its  way  through  the  woody 
defiles  beyond  Annapolis,  in  its  pioneer  march  to  Washing 
ton.  "  Full  moon  at  its  fullest,  —  a  night  more  perfect  than 
all  perfection,  mild,  dewy,  refulgent,"  says  Winthrop.  The 
glimmer  of  the  moonlight  on  the  polished  gun-barrels  and 
the  bright  faces  in  the  column  threw  into  broader  contrast 
the  dim  objects  around,  half  veiled  by  the  shade  of  the  trees. 
The  tramp  of  a  thousand  men  moving  as  one  echoed  through 
Fourteenth  Street,  and  some  citizens  threw  up  their  windows. 
"  A  hag  in  a  nightcap  reviewed  us  from  an  upper  window 
of  Willard's  Hotel  as  we  tramped  by,"  says  Winthrop. 
"  Opposite  Willard's,"  says  a  letter,  "  we  witnessed  curious 


198  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

and  unique  apparitions  of  femininity  and  masculinity 

All  along  the  street  the  same  spectacle  presented  itself,  and, 
as  we  neared  the  Long  Bridge,  crowds  began  to  assemble." 
When  near  the  Washington  Monument,  the  regiment  was 
ordered  to  halt,  to  allow  the  New  Jersey  brigade,  which 
was  behind  time,  to  pass  to  its  place  in  the  column.  An 
hour  slipped  away,  —  an  hour  which  seemed  a  moment  to 
such  as  had  dropped  asleep  on  the  cobble-stones,  and  whom 
the  Colonel's  call,  "Attention,  battalion!"  started  from 
pacific  dreams.  "  Five  of  us,  tent-fellows  when  in  camp, 
clustered  in  a  knot  on  the  pavement  and  slept,"  says  a  sol 
dier's  letter. 

Half  a  mile  more,  and  the  Potomac  appeared,  a  broad 
and  beautiful  river  of  molten  silver  in  the  reflected  moon 
light  ;  and  hither  and  thither  in  the  tranquil,  delicious 
night,  bayonets  flashed  on  both  shores.  The  secrecy  with 
which  the  movement  had  been  planned  demanded  silence 
in  its  execution.  But  when  the  head  of  column  turned 
upon  Long  Bridge,  a  low  murmur  of  delight  ran  throughout 
the  ranks.  Then  the  regiment  passed  the  guard  stationed 
to  prevent  civilians  crossing,  stretched  across  the  mile  of 
rickety  and  rotten  planks  and  trembling  girders,  defended 
at  intervals  by  earthworks,  and  at  4,  A.  M.,  at  the  first  faint 
gleam  of  dawn,  stood  on  Virginia  soil.* 

Half  a  mile  farther  on  the  Alexandria  Road  came  orders 
to  halt  and  stack  arms,  —  the  Seventh's  first  bivouac  in  Vir 
ginia.  A  picturesque  bivouac  it  was.  The  sleepy  dropped 
on  the  railway  track  and  slept  soundly.  The  active  or 
ganized  into  impromptu  forage  parties,  laid  hold  on  neigh 
boring  fence-rails  (all  the  fences  in  Virginia  have  since  been 

*•  It  may  be  worthwhile  here  to  state  the  precise  nature  of  Colonel  Lefferts's  in 
structions  from  General  Mansfield.  In  his  personal  interview  with  that  officer, 
he  had  received  private  instructions  to  cross  the  bridge,  and  if  he  should  not 
already  have  seen  Colonel  Heintzelman,  to  whom  he  was  to  report,  then  to  halt 
not  far  beyond  the  bridge,  and,  holding  his  command  well  in  hand,  to  cover  the 
bridge. 


THE   SEVENTH  IN   VIRGINIA.  199 

burned),  and  soon  had  fires  flaming  in  the  air,  and  raw 
pork  and  ham  sizzling  and  frying  in  better  or  worse  cook 
ery.  The  camp-fires  glowing  in  the  gray  of  morning ;  the 
stacks  of  arms  with  canteens,  haversacks,  and  red  blankets 
pendent ;  the  groups  in  gay  soldiers'  costume  gathered  about 
the  embers  ;  the  prone  and  slumberous  figures,  with  track 
ties  for  couches,  their  blankets  for  bedding,  the  iron  rail, 
covered  by  the  coa,t-cape,  for  a  pillow ;  recumbent  men 
scattered  on  the  road  and  in  the  grass  ;  the  dim  and  dis 
tant  clusters  and  fires  of  other  regiments  around  and  ahead, 
the  sun  climbing  to  outshine  the  paling  moon,  —  it  was  all  a 
memorable  picture. 

Broad  day  came.  The  troops  in  advance  were  seen  to  be 
busily  intrenching.  Mounted  orderlies  and  couriers  dashed 
forth  and  back,  clattered  across  Long  Bridge  ;  and  one  aide- 
de-camp,  as  he  galloped  breathlessly  by,  towards  Washing 
ton,  hoarsely  called,  "  Alexandria  taken  this  morning  by  the 
Fire  Zouaves, — Ellsworth  killed."  The  words  thrilled  like 
those  tidings  on  the  former  march  of  the  baptismal  blood 
poured  by  Massachusetts  on  the  pavements  of  guilty  Balti 
more. 

And  now  the  mystery  of  the  movement  began  to  clear, 
reports  of  its  success  being  fuller  and  fuller.  The  story  as 
it  has  passed  into  history  may  be  briefly  told.  Resolving 
to  take  permanent  possession,  without  further  delay,  both  of 
Alexandria  and  Arlington  Heights,  —  which  latter  com 
manded  Washington,  and  whence  a  single  hostile  battery 
could  have  fired  the  city  with  its  shells,  —  Lieutenant-Gen 
eral  Scott  directed  General  Mansfield  to  select  a  suitable 
force  for  this  twofold  purpose  and  to  accomplish  it.  With 
great  secrecy  the  plan  was  formed  and  executed.  Thirteen 
thousand  troops,  chiefly  volunteers,  divided  into  two  col 
umns,  simultaneously,  at  two  o'clock  on  the  morning  of  the 
24th  of  May,  assembled  from  a  dozen  different  camps  and 
crossed  the  Potomac.  Ten  days  previous  a  steamer  had 


200  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

dropped  anchor  off  Alexandria,  seven  miles  below  Wash 
ington,  and  held  the  city  under  its  guns.  The  left  column 
descended  the  Potomac  in  steamers  from  the  Navy-yard, 
landed  at  Alexandria  in  the  gray  dawn,  seized  the  telegraph 
and  the  railroad,  and  occupied  the  town.  The  gallant 
young  Ellsworth  was  in  immediate  command  with  his  Fire 
Zouaves  in  advance,  and  there  fell  at  the  outset  of  the  con 
flict,  the  Warren  of  his  generation.  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Farnham,  but  lately  of  the  National  Guard,  succeeded  to 
his  command. 

Meanwhile  the  right  column  crossed  Long  Bridge  and 
Chain  Bridge,  and  while  a  detachment  took  Alexandria  in 
reverse,  capturing  several  small  bodies  of  infantry  and 
cavalry  which  were  on  picket  duty  at  Alexandria,  Arlington 
Heights,  &c.,  and  afterwards  extending  reconnoissances  in 
various  directions,  especially  towards  Fairfax  Court-House, 
the  main  body,  in  which  the  Seventh  Regiment  found  itself, 
busily  went  to  work  intrenching.  Such  was  the  move,  in 
fine,  which  gave  to  the  Union  Army  the  right  bank  of  the 
Potomac,  and  its  defences,  prolonged  to  thirty  or  forty  miles, 
and  hence  virtually  the  possession  of  Washington,  which  its 
guns  commanded. 

Now  the  sun  blazes  hotter  and  hotter  as  he  rises  in  the 
heavens.  The  Jerseymen  are  bravely  at  work  intrenching 
on  the  ridge  ahead.  Soon  the  road  becomes  uncomfortable 
under  the  sun.  and,  scaling  the  fence,  the  regiment  changes 
its  bivouac  to  the  race-course,  and  constructs  fantastic  tents 
and  booths,  some  of  blankets  thrown  over  musket-stacks, 
or  stretched  in  long  lines  with  bayonets  for  tent-poles, 
some  of  branches  of  trees,  some  of  rails,  —  anything  to  keep 
out  the  broiling  sun.  From  the  race-course  is  visible  the 
white  mansion  of  General  Lee  on  Arlington  Heights. 
Through  clouds  of  stifling  dust,  wagons  loaded  with  picks 
and  spades  come  forward,  and  everywhere  engineers  are 
drawing  lines  for  intrenchments. 


THE   SEVENTH  IN  VIKGINIA.  201 

The  Seventh  occupied  a  point,  as  we  have  seen,  between 
Long  Bridge  and  Columbia  Spring,  on  the  line  of  the 
Washington  and  Alexandria  Railroad,  which,  with  the 
turnpike,  was  along  the  Potomac,  and  not  far  from  it.  The 
works  thrown  up  by  the  Jersey  brigade  were  located  at 
the  point  where  the  road,  after  running  westerly  from  the 
bridge,  bends  southerly,  and  aims  directly  for  Alexandria. 
It  was  an  important  position.  The  task  assigned  to  the 
Seventh  was  that  of  covering  Long  Bridge,  and  also  of 
holding  itself  in  readiness,  in  reserve.,  for  any  emergency 
on  any  part  of  the  field,  —  an  important  duty,  as  might 
have  been  expected  from  the  opinions  already  expressed 
regarding  it  by  the  three  officers  mainly  concerned  in  the 
expedition, —  Generals  Scott,  Mansfield,  and  McDowell. 

At  6,  P.  M.,  of  the  24th,  the  regiment  was  ordered  for 
ward  to  a  cedar-grove  near  Columbia  Spring,  hard  by  the 
redoubt  constructing  on  the  Heights,  that  it  might  be  ready 
at  hand  in  case  of  a  night  alarm.  This  open  wood  fur 
nished  a  fine  place  also  for  a  bivouac.  Within  is  an  excel 
lent  spring.  "  Every  one,"  says  a  letter  written  that  even 
ing,  "  is  as  happy  and  jolly  as  possible."  The  grounds 
belonged  to  the  Arlington  estate,  and  were  sodded  and 
neatly  kept.  The  lawns  were  deliciously  shaded  by  beauti 
ful  trees  of  all  the  local  varieties  ;  and  these  yielded  not 
only  boughs  for  bivouac  tents,  but  wood  for  fuel. 

The  next  morning  (Saturday,  May  25th),  Colonel  Lef- 
ferts,  at  daylight,  sent  Captain  Viele  to  the  trenches,  with 
a  request  to  the  engineer  officer  in  command  there  that  he 
would  allow  the  Seventh  to  go  to  work  and  relieve  the  New 
Jersey  regiment,  which  was  constructing  the  southeastern 
angle  of  the  redoubt.  The  latter  officer  did  not  relieve  the 
New  Jersey  regiment,  but  he  accepted  the  proposal  of  Colo 
nel  Lefferts  in  marking  out  more  definitely  the  southwest 
ern  angle  redoubt,  and  allowing  the  men  of  the  Seventh  to 
construct  it.  At  once  a  strong  working  party  was  detailed 


202  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

from  the  regiment  and  went  to  work.  A  part,  armed  with 
axes,  felled  a  large  peach-orchard  of  several  acres,  with  a 
few  cedars,  about  three  hundred  trees  in  all,  which  covered 
the  glacis  of  the  work  and  obstructed  it.  The  rest,  with 
pick  and  shovel,  dug  in  the  trenches.  This  detail  was 
relieved  by  others  after  two  hours,  and  so,  with  good  spirits 
and  cheerfulness,  the  work  went  briskly  on  all  day  long.* 
The  rain  fell  in  torrents  during  the  morning ;  but  the  sun 
came  out  hot  afterwards,  and  dried  the  men  who  had  been 
drenched.  The  noon  meal  and  night  meal  of  crackers  and 
pork  were  well  earned  by  the  hungry  and  wet  diggers ; 
some  country  people  helped  to  eke  out  the  rations  also,  by 
bringing  in  for  sale  a  little  butter,  milk,  and  bread.  At 
night,  sleep  was  sweet  to  the  tired  men,  who  lay  flat  on  the 
ground,  in  the  woods,  with  cartridge-boxes  for  pillows,  and 
feet  to  the  camp-fires. 

During  the  evening,  Colonel  Farnham,  of  the  Fire 
Zouaves,  Ellsworth's  successor,  visited  the  camp  of  the 
Seventh,  and  was  received  with  great  enthusiasm  by  the 
comrades  with  whom  he  had  made  the  march  from  An 
napolis  to  Washington.  It  was  his  farewell  visit.  He  fell 
at  Bull  Run. 

It  should  have  been  mentioned,  that,  the  day  before  the 
order  for  the  expedition  was  issued  (namely,  the  22d), 

*  One  letter  of  Saturday  speaks  of  the  jokes  and  badinage  of  the  work: 
"  '  Arrah !  ye  worked  betther  nor  that  whin  ye  was  on  the  Erie  Canal.'  '  Don't  be 
ashamed  o'  your  trade,  man.'  '  Some  of  these  gentlemen  who  have  been  wanting 
furloughs  to  go  home  and  attend  to  their  business  will  have  no  occasion  to  go  now.' 
And  so  on  until  we  left  the  trenches,  each  relief  bringing  with  their  fresh  strength 
new  and  brilliant  supplies  of  jokes  and  fun.  Still,  they  did  work,  and  heartily  too. 
Manv  an  arm  is  sore,  many  a  back  is  lame  to-day.  I  have  not  bled  for  my  coun 
try  exactly,  but  I  can  say,  with  solemn,  heartfelt  pride,  that  I  have  raised  blisters 
for  her." 

Another  letter,  dated  Saturday,  4  P.  M.,  says:  "The  great  majority  of  our 
men  are  now  digging  in  the  trenches.  You  should  see  them  at  this  moment,  in 
the  broiling  sun,  with  their  red  and  blue  and  check  flannel  shirts,  working  away 
like  beavers,  with  pickaxe  and  spade.  The  intrenchments  are  all  staked  out, 
with  wooden  framework  in  place.  The  trenches  are  fairly  under  way.  The  New 
Jersey  regiment  are  at  work  on  the  extreme  end,  and  our  boys  about  the  centre." 


THE   SEVENTH  IN   VIRGINIA.  203 

General  Sandford,  having  made  his  appearance  in  Washing 
ton  and  reported  at  head- quarters  for  duty,  was  ordered  to 
assume  command  of  all  the  New  York  regiments  within  the 
District  of  Columbia.  On  the  morning  after  the  occupation 
of  Virginia,  —  that  is,  on  the  24th,  —  he  established  his  di 
visional  head-quarters  at  the  Arlington  House,  and  issued 
next  day  the  following  Proclamation  :  — 

PKOCLAMATION  FROM  GENERAL  SANDFORD. 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  DEPARTMENT  OF  FAIRFAX,  VA., 
ARLINGTON  HOUSE,  May  25,  1861. 

Fairfax  County  being  occupied  by  the  troops  under  my  command,  I 
deem  it  proper  to  repeat  publicly  the  assurances  I  have  personally  given 
to  many  of  the  good  citizens  about  me,  that  all  of  its  inhabitants  may  re 
turn  to  or  remain  in  their  homes  and  usual  pacific  occupations,  in  peace 
and  confidence,  and  with  assured  protection  to  their  persons  and  proj> 
erty,  as  the  United  States  forces  in  Virginia  will  be  employed  for  no 
other  purpose  than  that  of  suppressing  unlawful  combinations  against 
the  constituted  authorities  of  the  Union,  and  of  causing  the  laws  thereof 
to  be  duly  respected  and  executed. 
By  order  of 

MAJOR-GENERAL  CHAS.  W.  SANDFORD. 
GEORGE  W.  MORELL,  Division  Inspector. 

On  the  same  (Saturday)  morning  he  sent  the  following 
order  to  Colonel  Lefferts,  who  received  it  at  ten  o'clock, 
A.  M:  — 

"  Colonel  Lefferts  will  detail  a  working  party  from  his  regiment  for 
duty  in  the  trenches  this  morning.  His  regiment  will  be  relieved  this 
afternoon  by  one  of  the  Massachusetts  regiments  detailed  by  General 
Mansfield,  upon  the  arrival  of  which  the  Seventh  will  return  to  the 
camp  in  Washington  City,  and  wait  further  orders." 

General  Sandford's  order,  however,  having  been  antici 
pated,  Colonel  Lefferts  addressed  to  that  officer  the  following 
reply :  — 

IN  CAMP,  VIRGINIA,  May  25,  1861,  Ten  o'clock,  A.  M. 

SIR,  —  Special  order  of  this  date  just  received.  I  sent  Captain  Viele 
at  daylight  this  morning  to  the  trenches,  asking  of  the  engineer  in 
2ommand,  as  a  special  favor,  that  he  would  allow  my  men  to  go  to  work 


204  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

and  relieve  the  New  Jersey  regiment.     He  consented  for  us  to  throw 
up  a  new  line  marked  out,  and  they  are  now  at  work,  thus  anticipating 

so  much  of  your  order 

Respectfully, 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Colonel  Commanding. 

Sunday,  the  26th,  was  a  day  of  hard  work.  Nearly  the 
whole  regiment  was  detailed  for  digging,  felling  trees, 
burning  brush,  &c.  The  working  parties  were  made  about 
two  hundred  strong,  and  each  relief  was  on  from  two  to 
three  hours.  Divine  service  was  held  in  the  morning  by 
the  Chaplain,  who,  at  the  conclusion,  laid  down  the  Scrip 
tures  and  took  up  the  shovel,  and,  heading  his  congregation 
of  young  soldiers,  went  to  work  in  the  trenches,  practising 
as  vigorously  as  he  had  preached,  and  illustrating  Luther's 
maxim,  Or  a  et  labor  a. 

Till  evening  the  Seventh  worked  untiringly,  manning  a 
space  of  four  hundred  yards  in  the  trenches.  On  the  other 
faces  of  the  redoubt  the  New  Jersey  Second,  Third,  and 
Fourth  were  engaged.  The  burning  sun  would  have  been 
almost  intolerable  but  for  the  havelocks,  never  so  grateful 
a  present  as  on  that  oppressive  day ;  and  bathing  in  the 
Potomac  was  doubly  refreshing.  A  Washington  telegram 
says :  — 

"  The  heat  was  oppressive  all  day,  but  the  plucky  men  of  the  Seventh 
vied,  nevertheless,  with  the  hardy  yeomen  of  New  Jersey  in  handling 
picks,  shovels,  and  wheelbarrows.  Only  two  defensive  works  are  erect 
ing,  —  one  near  the  end  of  the  Long  Bridge,  constructed  by  the  New 
York  Seventh  and  the  New  Jersey  regiments ;  and  the  other  directly 
opposite  Georgetown.  Both  are  going  up  on  commanding  elevations." 

A  letter  to  a  New  York  paper  says :  — 

"  The  New  York  Seventh  are  highly  praised  for  their  pluck  and  good 
digging  in  ditches  and  trenches  in  Virginia.  Some  of  them  have  their 
hands  badly  blistered." 

An  editorial  article  in  the  New  York  Express  says :  — 

"  The  correspondents  note  the  gallant  Seventh  and  brave  Sixty-Ninth, 


THE   SEVENTH  IN   VIRGINIA.  205 

both  at  work  in  the  trenches  together,  night  and  day,  sun  and  rain,  and 
the  former,  though  more  delicately  trained,  as  only  second  to  the  latter 
in  the  hard  work  of  digging  the  ercth.  The  sword  and  musket,  for  a 
season,  have  given  way  to  the  shovel  and  the  pick." 

A  private  letter  says :  — 

"  Our  fellows  stripped  to  their  shirts  and  pants,  and,  with  neck  and 
bosoms  open,  picked  and  shovelled  until  red-hot  and  dripping.  We  as 
tonished  the  United  States  engineers  in  charge  of  the  work." 

A  Tribune  correspondent  says  :  — 

"  Red  shirts  and  blue,  pink  and  brown,  white  havelocks  and  bare  heads, 
were  in  one  jolly  confusion.  Long  shovels  and  short,  picks  and  wheel 
barrows,  were  flying  in  every  direction." 

Each  detachment,  when  relieved,  was  allowed  an  hour 
for  bathing ;  and  it  took  the  opportunity  to  gather  strawber 
ries,  which  were  abundant. 

It  was  pleasant  for  them  to  see  the  work  rise  shapely  and 
strong  under  their  hands,  obviously  commanding,  from  its 
elevation,  the  railway,  road,  canal,  and  river  for  miles  around, 
and  forming  a  strong  advanced  tete  de  pont  for  Long  Bridge, 
the  main  road  to  Washington.  It  is  pleasant  now  to  recall, 
that,  while  but  two  defensive  earthworks  of  magnitude  were 
erected  at  this  period  for  the  protection  of  the  capital, — this 
and  the  one  directly  opposite  Georgetown,  —  the  Seventh 
Regiment  left  its  handiwork  on  the  larger  one,  that  stout 
work  known  in  the  history  of  the  war  as  Fort  Runyon. 

But  its  work,  and  the  object  of  the  whole  expedition,  had 
now  been  successfully  accomplished.  The  District  of  Colum 
bia  forces  had  already  returned  to  their  habitual  stations. 
On  the  evening  of  the  26th,  Colonel  Lefferts  received  the 
following  flattering  acknowledgment  and  order  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  DEPARTMENT  WASHINGTON,  26th  May,  1861. 
COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  New  York  Seventh  Regiment. 

SIR, —  Your  regiment  has  accomplished  all  that  was  intended,  in 
crossing  over  to  Arlington  to  take  possession  of  the  Heights,  having  la 
bored  in  the  intrenchments  manfully  also. 


206  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

The  security  of  this  city  makes  it  imperative  you  should  resume  ycur 
encampment  on  this  side,  and  you  will,  this  afternoon,  march  over  ac 
cordingly,  and  hold  your  regiment  here  ready  to  turn  out  when  called 
upon. 

I  would  recommend  that  you  afford  your  command  an  opportunity  to 
bathe  in  the  canal,  if  desirable,  before  you  march. 
Very  respectfully,  &c., 

JOSEPH  K.  F.  MANSFIELD, 

Brigadier-  General  and  Commanding. 

About  sundown  the  regiment  was  put  en  route  for  its  old 
position  as  outpost  on  the  Harper's  Ferry  Road.  It  left  Vir 
ginia  with  the  feeling  that  it  had  taken  a  worthy  share  in 
a  movement  which  had  made  Washington  secure.  The 
occupation  of  Arlington  Heights  was  the  key  to  the  defence 
of  Washington ;  from  the  works  thrown  up  beyond  Long 
Bridge  extended  afterwards  a  famous  defensive  line  of 
enormous  proportions,  such  as  no  Confederate  column,  even 
in  the  height  of  victory,  ever  ventured  to  assail.  Even  the 
army  wrecked  at  Manassas  there  stranded  and  was  safe. 

The  regiment  did  not  wait  for  a  wash  in  the  canal ;  how 
ever,  it  took  an  abundant  shower-bath,  on  the  way  to  camp, 
in  the  shape  of  a  drenching  rain.  At  9,  P.  M.,  the  camp 
was  reached,  and  the  two  companies  left  behind  received 
their  worn,  wet,  and  tired  comrades  with  a  hearty  welcome. 
"  One  hand,"  says  a  letter,  "  holding  pieces  at  '  present 
arms,'  the  other  waving  caps,  shaking  hands,  or  welcoming 
by  a  slap  on  the  shoulders  the  men  as  they  passed  the 
guard-tent ;  the  band  on  the  right  of  the  guard  playing 
4  Home  Again,'  while  to  this  music  was  added  the  ringing 
cheeis  of  the  glad  fellows  who  had  so  reluctantly  remained 
at  home  while  we  '  went  to  the  wars.' ' 

While  the  Seventh  were  in  Virginia  on  Saturday,  an 
alarm  of  attack  had  been  started  in  Washington.  Sher 
man's  Battery  dashed  across  Long  Bridge,  infantry  regi 
ments  followed,  and  the  whole  country  was  aroused  by  the 
news  of  a  great  battle.  Some  of  the  friends  of  the  Seventh 


THE   SEVENTH  IN  VIRGINIA.  207 

in  New  York  will  remember  to  this  day  the  anxiety  of  the 
25th  of  May.* 

*  Here  is  a  specimen  of  the  despatches  which  came  to  the  New  York  papers  of 
that  day :  — 

"ATTACK    ON    THE    TWELFTH    AND    SEVENTH    NEW    YORK    REGI 
MENTS. 

"  WASHINGTON,  May  25,  1861. 

"  About  eleven  o'clock  this  forenoon  the  picket  guard  of  the  Twelfth  New  York 
regiment  was  attacked,  half  a  mile  beyond  Arlington  Heights,  by  about  seven  hun 
dred  and  fifty  infantry  of  the  Rebels.  Only  a  few  shots  were  fired  by  the  Rebels. 
The  guard  returned  the  fire,  and  hastened  to  the  main  body  to  give  the  alarm, 
when  the  Twelfth  Regiment  was  called  to  arms.  The  Seventh  New  York  Regi 
ment,  being  near  the  Twelfth,  was  also  soon  in  marching  order,  having  been  fired 
upon  by  a  body  of  cavalry  without  doing  harm.  The  two  regiments  —  the  Twelfth 
and  Seventh  —  were  soon  in  line  of  battle.  As  soon  as  the  Rebels  discovered  they 
were  about  to  be  attacked  by  the  Federal  forces,  they  fled. 

"  The  greatest  excitement  prevailed  in  the  city.  The  house-tops  were  covered 
with  people,  anxious  to  get  a  glimpse  at  the  expected  battle.  The  Massachusetts 
Fifth  was  ready  to  march  in  five  minutes  after  receiving  the  order.  The  Presi 
dent's  mounted  guard,  consisting  of  Georgetown  volunteers,  formed  part  of  Colonel 
Ellsworth's  funeral  cortege,  and  had  hardly  reached  the  depot  when  the  alarm  was 
communicated  to  them.  They  immediately  started  at  a  full  gallop  across  the 
bridge,  although  service  cannot  be  required  of  them  outside. 

"  The  President,  while  in  the  processsion  to-day,  accompanying  the  remains  of 
Colonel  Ellsworth  to  the  cars,  was  informed  by  a  courier  of  stirring  hostilities 
on  the  Virginia  side;  General  Mansfield  was  similarly  advised,  and  this  was  the 
foundation  of  the  military  movements  here  to-day.  A  dense  smoke  was  mean 
while  seen  on  the  line  of  Arlington  Heights,  and  cannonading  heard.  The  latter, 
however,  were  funeral  minute-guns,  and  the  former  probably  from  camp-fires. 
The  troops  now  here  have  been  ordered  to  hold  themselves  in  readiness  to  march 
at  a  moment's  notice." 


208 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


CHAPTER  XII. 


A   MISSION   ACCOMPLISHED. 

HE  National  Guard,  in  has 
tily  abandoning  everything 
to  rush  to  the  defence  of  the 
capital,  enlisted  for  thirty 
days.  That  period  had  now 
expired  ;  but  the  War  De 
partment  specially  request 
ed  the  Seventh,  on  which 
so  much  reliance  had  been 
placed,  to  remain  a  few 
days  beyond  their  time, 
until  some  dispositions  of 
troops  connected  with  the 
late  movement  should  be 
completed. 

This  was  an  appeal  which 
could  meet  with  but  one 
response  from  the  National 
Guard.  Accordingly,  when, 

at  the  battalion  drill  of  Tuesday,  May  28th,  Colonel  Lef- 
ferts,  as  Captain  Clark  states  in  the  "  History  of  the  Sec 
ond  Company,"  "  alluded  to  this  subject  eloquently  and 
patriotically,"  the  regiment,  as  one  man,  expressed  a  will 
ingness  and  a  desire  to  remain  in  the  field  and  faithfully 
perform  every  duty,  so  long  as  the  government  required  its 
services.  Returning  cheerfully  to  the  routine  of  camp  duty, 
it  observed  all  drills  and  other  requirements  with  custom- 


A   MISSION  -ACCOMPLISHED.  209 

ary  strictness.  The  Washington  despatch  of  that  morning 
to  the  New  York  Herald  thus  reports  the  appeal  of  Colonel 
Lefferts  to  his  men  :  — 

"  At  the  regular  parade  of  the  Seventh  this  morning,  Colonel  Lefferts 
ordered  his  men  to  form  square,  and,  addressing  them,  said  that  the 
thirty  days  for  which  the  regiment  had  enlisted  had  now  expired,  but 
that  the  government  was  still  in  want  of  their  services,  and  that  hence  he 
hoped  the  regiment  icould  consent  to  stay  as  long  as  it  was  wanted.  Tf  it 
did,  those  members  whose  presence  was  indispensably  necessary  at  home 
would  be  granted  leave  of  absence.  The  question  was  then  put,  when 
the  men,  with  a  unanimous  shout,  expressed  their  willingness  to  serve  as 
long  as  the  country  wanted  them." 

The  New  York  Times  correspondent,  in  the  same  spirit, 
says :  — 

"  Early  this  morning,  Colonel  Lefferts,  at  battalion  drill,  took  the 
sentiment  of  the  Seventh  about  remaining  until  ordered  home  by  govern 
ment,  their  time  having  expired.  Furloughs  were  offered  to  all  who 
wished,  but  only  five  out  of  twelve  hundred  and  twenty-five  asked  for 
them.  I  can  inform  you  officially  that  the  government  wish  the  Seventh 
here  for  a  few  days.  When  feeling  perfectly  secure,  they  will  be  ordered 
to  return  home." 

While  such  was  the  conduct  of  the  Seventh,  it  is  due  to 
mention  that  the  sentiment  of  a  majority  of  the  regiment, 
as  reported  by  the  company  officers  to  Colonel  Lefferts, 
favored  a  temporary  return  to  New  York  whenever  the  gov 
ernment  should  signify  its  desire  to  release  the  organization 
from  service.  That  it  could  have  been  otherwise  will 
hardly  be  imagined  by  any  one  who  for  a  moment  con 
siders  the  circumstances  under  which  the  National  Guard 
so  suddenly  started  to  Washington.  Families  had  been 
left  unprovided  for  ;  extensive  businesses  had  been  dropped, 
and,  in  the  general  derangement  of  finance,  were  going  to 
ruin  ;  commercial  positions  had  been  sacrificed,  and  the 
call  of  the  country  had  alone  been  heard. 

Colonel  Lefferts  had  announced,  by  authority  of  the  gov 
ernment,  that  only  a  few  days'  additional  service  was  de- 
u 


210  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

sired,  and,  as  has  already  been  seen,  there  was  enthusi 
astic  unanimity  in  the  response  to  his  earnest  appeal ;  but 
a  few  hours  later,  on  the  same  day,  Colonel  Lefferts  received 
from  one  of  his  company  officers  the  following  note,  whose 
terms  were  direct  and  decisive  :  — 

."  I  have  had  a  personal  interview  with  every  member  of  our  company 
now  in  camp.  There  is  perfect  unanimity  of  sentiment,  and  that  is  to 
stay  two  or  three  days  longer. 

"  The  sentiment  is  equally  unanimous  not  to  stay  beyond  Saturday  at 
the  latest.  The  members  of  this  company  are  unanimous  in  saying  that 
they  will  be  obliged  to  go  on  that  day,  if  not  before  relieved.  I  hope 
you  will  be  able  to  make  arrangements  so  that  this  company,  which  has 
so  nobly  responded  to  your  request,  may  go  home  at  that  time  with  honor, 
and  before  that  time  if  possible.  I  wish  you  distinctly  to  understand, 
that  this  unanimity  has  been  obtained  upon  your  assurance  that  we  are 
to  go  home  by  Saturday  next,  at  the  latest." 

Of  course  there  were  no  two  interpretations  to  be  put  upon 
this  missive,  and  Colonel  Lefferts  promptly  exerted  himself 
to  see  that  the  desires  of  the  government  and  the  regiment, 
which  seemed  to  agree,  were  carried  out.  At  first,  however, 
some  question  was  raised  in  New  York  as  to  whether  any 
troops  who  had  once  gone  to  the  front  should  ever  return, 
even  when  mustered  out,  "  till  the  war  was  over."  But  this 
feeling,  which  chiefly  arose  from  a  popular  misapprehension 
that "  the  affair  would  be  ended  in  sixty  days,"  was  dispelled, 
when  it  became  known  that  hundreds  of  those  who  were 
desirous  to  return  purposed,  as  soon  as  possible,  to  hurry 
back  "  to  the  front "  in  the  higher  stations  which  were  now 
every  day  pressed  upon  them.  This  generous  response  of 
the  regiment  to  his  appeal  relieved  from  anxiety  Colonel 
Lefferts,  who,  their  lawful  time  having  expired,  was  forced 
to  rely  greatly  upon  the  voluntary  action  of  his  officers  and 
men ;  and,  on  the  other  hand,  the  unanimity  reported  to  him 
as  existing  among  his  own  men,  showed  that  the  present 
campaign  could  not  be  prolonged  beyond  the  time  already 
specified.  Among  the  many  letters  received  at  this  time, 


A   MISSION   ACCOMPLISHED.  211 

in  New  York,  from  the  regiment,  and  now  placed  at  the 
service  of  the  writer,  is  one  from  Colonel  Lefferts,  from 
which  I  extract  a  few  lines  :  — 

"  The  time  for  which  we  were  mustered  into  the  service  expired  on 
Sunday,  and  I  found  the  largest  part  of  my  regiment  desirous  to  return. 
Their  sacrifices  have  been  very  great,  and  I  know  they  should  return ; 
but  much  depends  on  the  next  few  days,  during  which  the  government 
is  desirous  that  we  should  remain.  At  the  drill,  this  morning,  I  ad 
dressed  the  men,  pointed  out  our  position,  and  received  a  most  en 
couraging  response :  they  would  all  willingly  stay  a  few  days  longer. 
Some,  to  whom  I  had  granted  furloughs,  returned  them  to  me,  and  said 
they  would  stand  by  me,  come  what  would." 

With  reference  to  the  unanimity  of  sentiment  reported  to 
him  by  his  officers,  he  wrote  : — 

"The  regiment  are  not  divided.  They-  will  move,  as  they  always 
have  done,  together" 

In  a  thoughtful  and  appreciative  article,  the  New  York 
Tribune  at  this  time  said  :  — 

"  Our  Seventh  Regiment  is  coming  home  at  the  expiration  of  the 
thirty  days  for  which  it  was  mustered  into  service.  This  is  well.  A  war 
such  as  that  before  us  requires  soldiers  enlisted  for  its  duration.  Of  such 
there  will  be  no  lack,  and  they  are  in  rapid  process  of  organization.  To 
this  end  our  means  and  arms  should  be  addressed,  leaving  our  uniformed 
militia  at  home  as  a  body  always  ready  and  always  to  be  relied  on  in 
any  sudden  peril.  Such  was  that  which  menaced  Washington  when  the 
Seventh  marched  forth  so  instantaneously  to  its  rescue,  and  it  is  not  too 
much  to  say  that  the  arrival  of  the  Seventh  New  York  and  Eighth 
Massachusetts  Regiments  did  save  Washington  from  attack.  For  this 
the  regiment  went.  The  peril  was  great,  and  they  knew  it,  and  were 
anxious  to  encounter  it.  That  peril  is  now  past ;  and  we  speak  advisedly 
when  we  say  that  it  was  the  wish  and  decision  of  the  General-in-Chief 
that  this  fine  regiment  should  be  restored  to  its  home,  available  in  twelve 
hours  from  this  city  for  any  future  call,  and  ready  as  they  are  available. 

"  Let  us  then  welcome  back  our  gallant  Seventh,  proud  of  what"  they 
have  done,  and  confident  that  no  call  can  be  made  upon  them  in  mo 
ments  of  danger  that  they  will  not  answer  with  a  will  and  with  like 
good  result." 

On  the  evening  of  the  30th  of  May,  in  presence  of  a  large 
number  of  distinguished  officers,  the  regiment,  having  been 


212  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

formed  in  square,  was  formally  addressed  in  a  farewell 
speech,  in  behalf  of  the  government,  by  the  Secretary  of 
War,  General  Cameron.  "  He  began,"  says  the  report,  "  by 
paying  a  graceful  compliment  to  the  regiment  for  the  ear 
nest  promptness  with  which  they  had  responded  to  the 
President's  call  for  volunteers  to  come  forward  to  Washing 
ton  for  the  defence  of  the  capital,  so  fraught  with  hallowed 
national  associations.  They  had  come  ready  to  sacrifice 
their  lives,  if  necessary,  for  the  cause  of  the  Union,  and  on 
their  route  had  passed  through  dangers  which  had  tried 
their  courage  and  fortitude  to  the  fullest  extent.  They  had 
come  as  defenders  of  their  country,  offering  themselves  at  a 
moment  when  the  government  and  the  nation  at  large  were 
burdened  with  gloom  and  apprehension ;  and  the  joyous 
welcome  accorded  them  was  never  more  worthily  bestowed. 
In  the  name  of  the  government,  he  thanked  not  only  them, 
but  the  liberal  city  which  had  sent  them,  and  the  devoted 
families  which  had  spared  them  to  undergo  any  perils  that 
might  ensue  in  behalf  of  the  land  of  their  love.  They  had 
remained  until  now  the  imminent  danger  had  passed  away. 
But  the  struggle  was  not  over,  and  he  knew  that  when  they 
were  wanted  again  they  would  come  as  swiftly  and  man 
fully,  and  with  the  same  ,self-sacrificmg  devotion,  as  before. 
The  contest  was  one  in  which  a  free  people  were  determined 
to  exhibit  before  the  world  their  capacity  for  self-govern 
ment,  and  to  confirm  their  power  to  preserve  and  perfect 
the  free  institutions  which  had  given  its  chief  glory  to  this 
land.  As  he  had  before  said,  there  might  be  a  necessity 
for  those  whom  he  addressed  to  rejoin  this  patriot  army. 
'  Yes,'  he  said,  '  we  may  meet  again.  The  same  feeling 
which  prompted  you,  when  you  first  heard  that  your  country 
was  in  danger,  will  once  more,  if  need  be,  rally  you  in  her 
defence.  It  is  not  for  me  to  determine  when  this  struggle 
will  end.  But  I  may  say  how  it  shall  end.  Sooner  or  later 
it  can  have  but  one  conclusion,  and  that  will  be  when  the 


A   MISSION   ACCOMPLISHED.  213 

disturbing  cause  which  gave  rise  to  it  is  utterly  obliterated. 
Again  I  thank  you.  You  will  return  to  meet  that  cordial 
welcome  always  tendered  to  the  brave,  —  that  honorable 
recognition  won  by  those  who  have  passed  with  manful 
fidelity  through  the  labors  and  perils  allotted  therein.' ' 

As  probably  no  volunteer  or  militia  regiment  was  ever 
dismissed  from  national  service  with  such  distinguished 
attention  from  the  War  Office,  so  none  surely  ever  received 
a  more  complimentary  mustering-out  order  than  that  which 
General  Thomas,  Adjutant-General  of  the  army,  now  handed 
to  Colonel  LefTerts.  It  read  as  follows  :  — 

SPECIAL  ORDER,  No.  146. 

WAR  DEPARTMENT,  ADJUTANT  GENERAL'S  OFFICE, 
WASHINGTON,  D.  C.,  May  30,  1861. 

The  commanding  officer  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  of  New  York 
Volunteers  will  proceed  with  his  regiment  to  the  city  of  New  York, 
where  it  will  be  mustered  out  of  the  service  of  the  United  States  by 
Lieutenant  M.  Coggswell,  Eighth  Infantry. 

It  is  the  desire  of  the  War  Department,  in  relinquishing  the  services 
of  this  gallant  regiment,  to  make  known  the  satisfaction  that  is  felt  at 
the  prompt  and  patriotic  manner  in  which  it  responded  to  the  call  for 
men  to  defend  this  capital,  when  it  was  believed  to  have  been  in  peril, 
and  to  acknowledge  the  important  service  which  it  rendered  by  appear 
ing  here  in  an  hour  of  dark  and  trying  necessity. 

The  time  for  which  it  had  engaged  to  serve  has  now  expired,  the  ser 
vice  which  it  was  expected  to  perform  has  been  handsomely  accom 
plished,  and  its  members  may  return  to  their  native  city  with  the  assur 
ance  that  its  services  are  gratefully  appreciated  by  all  good  and  loyal 
citizens,  whilst  the  government  is  equally  confident,  that,  when  the 
country  again  calls  upon  them,  their  appeal  will  not  be  made  in  vain  to 
the  young  men  of  New  York. 

By  order, 

L.  THOMAS,  Adjutant-General. 

In  compliance  with  this  order,  Colonel  Lefferts  directed 
the  regiment  to  parade  at  half  past  three  o'clock  of  the  fol 
lowing  afternoon,  in  overcoats,  armed  and  equipped  for  the 
march  ;  each  soldier  carrying  his  canteen,  haversack,  two 


214  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

days'  rations,  and  his  blankets  rolled  and  strapped  upon  his 
knapsack. 

Soon  Camp  Cameron  was  a  wreck  of  its  former  self.  Near 
midnight  a  serenading  party,  composed  of  the  regimental 
band  and  five  files  of  men,  bearing  torches,  under  command 
of  Lieutenant  Bostwick,  drew  up  in  front  of  the  President's 
mansion,  and  performed  patriotic  airs.  Mr.  Lincoln  and 
his  family  sat  at  the  open  window.  Thence  the  party  went 
to  the  residence  of  Secretary  Seward,  who  addressed  them 
as  follows :  — 

"  I  see  in  my  visitors  to-night  my  friends  and  neighbors  of  the  State 
of  New  York.  I  have  ever  thought,  I  have  always  known,  that  the 
Union  would  not  be  worth  much  without  the  State  of  New  York  ;  and  by 
the  events  that  are  now  progressing,  New  York  believes  that  she  would 
not  be  much  without  the  Union.  We  live  in  stirring  times.  People  are 
trying  to  abolish  Yankee  Doodle,  Hail  Columbia,  and  the  Star-Spangled 
Banner.  And  they  are  also  trying  that  other  and  greater  impossibility, 
to  abolish  the  Fourth  of  July.  Congress  will  meet  on  the  Fourth  of 
'July,  with  the  country  in  the  midst  of  a  civil  war.  Let  us  hope  that 
when  it  meets  again,  on  the  next  Fourth  of  July,  we  may  have  peace, 
harmony,  and  a  restored  Union.  Gentlemen,  will  you  do  me  the  favor 
to  walk  into  the  houlse  and  take  a  glass  of  wine  with  me." 

From  Secretary  Seward's  the  detachment  proceeded  to 
Willard's,  and  serenaded  General  McDowell,  Major  Slem- 
mer,  and  General  Mansfield,  the  latter  of  whom  made  a 
short  speech,  as  did  his  adjutant,  Drake  de  Kay. 

After  the  orders  had  been  issued  for  departure,  an  alarm 
came  from  the  Virginia  shore,  and  Colonel  Lefferts  received 
from  General  Mansfield  instructions  to  u  be  careful  against 
a  surprise  to-night  from  Harper's  Ferry"  The  night 
passed,  however,  without  disturbance ;  and,  the  rumor  of 
hostile  movement  proving  baseless,  Colonel  Lefferts,  who 
had  again  proposed  to  retain  the  regiment,  resumed,  on  the 
31st,  arrangements  for  departure.  The  camp  equipage  was 
sold  to  the  government,  and  the  camp  furniture,  fixtures, 
utensils,  provisions,  &c.  were  sent  as  a  gift  to  the  Ninth 


A   MISSION   ACCOMPLISHED.  215 

New  York  Volunteers,  —  "  the  generous  donations  filling," 
says  a  daily  paper,  "  ten  large  army-wagons."  A  consider 
able  sum  of  money  was  also  given  by  members  of  the  regi 
ment  to  the  Washington  Monument  Society. 

Just  before  the  regiment  was  ready  to  march,  General 
Sandford  sent  in  haste  to  Colonel  Lefferts  the  following 
letter :  - 

WASHINGTON,  May  31,  1861. 

COLONEL,  —  I  have  just  received  intelligence,  through  the  highest  mili 
tary  sources,  that  there  was  a  collision  yesterday  on  Federal  Hill,  Baltimore, 
between  the  pickets  of  our  troops  and  some  of  the  Baltimore  rowdies,  in 
which  three  of  the  latter  were  shot.     A  great  excitement  prevails  there, 
and  I  am  advised  that  it  is  imprudent  to  let  the  Seventh  go  through 
Baltimore  at  night.    This  opinion  is  from  the  highest  sources.    I  deem  it, 
my  duty,  therefore  (whilst  I  omit  to  issue  an  order),  to  advise  you  to 
defer  your  departure  until  an  early  hour  to-morrow  morning. 
I  am,  very  truly,  your  obedient  servant, 

CIIAS.  W.  SANDFORD. 

Besides  this  letter  from  Sandford,  Colonel  Lefferts  re 
ceived  word  to  the  same  effect  from  General  Scott. 

It  seemed  a  perplexing  question ;  but  it  was  at  once  de 
cided  to  march  through  Baltimore  at  night,  not  from  any 
idle  desire  to  precipitate  a  contest,  but  because  this  seemed 
the  path  of  duty.  If  Baltimore  was  still  in  condition  to 
resist  the  passage  of  Union  troops,  the  Seventh,  which  had 
opened  the  way  to  Washington,  could  not  do  better  service 
than  in  opening  the  way  back.  The  Colonel  therefore  de 
clined  to  accept  the  advice  of  General  Sandford,  but  ordered 
the  regiment  to  proceed  with  fixed  bayonets  and  muskets 
loaded. 

At  half  past  three,  P.  M.,  of  May  31st,  the  regiment  broke 
camp,  and  marched  to  the  depot  over  the  dusty  highway. 
Here  a  new  difficulty  presented  itself.  The  railroad  author 
ities  had  been  advised  by  "  the  railway  officers  of-  the  War 
Department "  to  transfer  the  regiment  to  Locust  Point  sta 
tion,  there  to  be  ferried  across,  in  order  to  avoid  a  inarch 


216  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

through  the  city.  The  following  telegram  was  received  by 
Colonel  Lefferts,  on  the  morning  of  the  31st,  from  Balti 
more,  from  W.  Prescott  Smith,  of  the  Baltimore  and  Ohio 
Railroad :  — 

"  Our  agent  at  Washington  telegraphs  me  that  you  stated  you  would 
march  your  regiment  through  Baltimore.  Permit  me  to  advise  you,  that, 
by  direction  of  the  Railway  Officers  of  the  War  Department  to-day,  we 
have  arranged  with  Bay  steamers  and  Philadelphia  road  to  transfer  you 
at  the  harbor  from  our  Locust  Point  station  to  Canton.  This  will 
obviate  any  march  here,  and  greatly  facilitate  your  movements." 

This  telegram  verified  inferentially  the  rumor  spoken  of  * 
by  Generals  Scott  and  Sandford  regarding  the  opposition 
preparing  in  Baltimore,  and  in  addition  appeared  to  show, 
as  General  Sandford  had  said,  that  the  War  Department 
held  the  same  view  as  himself  in  the  matter.  However,  it 
did  not  offer  any  additional  reason  why  the  Seventh  should 
not  inarch  through  the  city  in  spite  of  the  reported  mob. 
Instead,  therefore,  of  accepting  this  change  of  railroad  ar 
rangements  under  the  suggestion  of  the  War  Department, 
it  was  resolved  not  to  do  so  unless  a  peremptory  order 
should  come  from  the  Department  which  could  not  be  dis 
obeyed.  Accordingly  the  Colonel,  at  quarter  past  six,  P.  M., 
marched  his  regiment,  and  despatched  the  following  mes 
sage  to  Superintendent  Smith  :  — 

'*  ON  THK  TRAIN,  May  31,  1861. 

"  Your  despatch  received.     Was  it  the  order  of  the  War  Department    . 
to  go  to  Locust  Point  ?     Does  any  cause  exist  why  we  should  not  march 
from  depot  to  depot  ?     I  of  course  wish  to  obey  instructions.     Answer 
at  Relay  House." 

At  the  Relay  House,  Colonel  Lefferts  received  the  follow 
irig  telegram  from  Superintendent  Smith  :  — 

"  We  were  directed  specifically  from  Washington,  by  the  General  Rail 
way  Managers  for  War  Department,  to  arrange  for  your  transfer  at 
Locust  Point.  We  have  to  do  so,  and  to  change  it  at  this  late  hour 
would  make  delay  and  confusion.  But  for  this,  no  cause  would  exist 
why  you  should  not  march  from  depot  to  depot  as  you  prefer.  The  plan 


A   MISSION   ACCOMPLISHED.  217 

arranged  is  more  expensive  and  troublesome  to  us,  but  will  facilitate 
yours.     We  will  take  you  to  Locust  Point  accordingly." 

It  now  only  remained  to  appeal  to  Washington,  and  this 
Colonel  Lefferts  did  at  once,  and  was  gratified  at  receiving 
permission  to  "  use  his  own  judgment,"  with  assurance 
that  his  wishes  should  be  conformed  to.  Accordingly 
he  sent  word  to  Superintendent  Smith  at  Baltimore : 
"  We  prefer  to  inarch  from  depot  to  depot,  as  no  reason 
seems  to  exist  why  we  should  not."  And  such,  in  fine, 
was  the  arrangement  consummated.  Arriving  at  Balti 
more,  Colonel  Lefferts  carefully  formed  his  regiment  in  line, 
broke  it  into  column,  and,  placing  himself  at  the  head, 
started  for  the  Camden  Station  through  the  city,  mainly 
over  the  route  taken  by  the  Sixth  Massachusetts.  The 
regiment,  1,250  strong,  with  its  battery  and  baggage,  made 
an  imposing  appearance.  It  arrived  unchallenged  at  the 
other  depot,  and  thence,  starting  about  midnight,  reached 
Philadelphia  at  ten  o'clock  on  the  morning  of  June  1st. 
Proceeding  forthwith  down  Prime  Street  to  the  wharf,  it 
took  the  steamboats  Fashion  and  Washington  for  Camden, 
thence  to  move  on  to  New  York. 

What  reception  was  in  store  from  the  great  city  that  had 
so  shouted  and  wept  when,  six  weeks  before,  taking  their 
lives  in  their  hands,  they  had  set  out  to  hew  a  path  to 
Washington  ?  Strange  as  it  now  reads,  this  question  the 
regiment  asked  itself  with  some  misgiving ;  for  at  that 
frenzied  epoch,  a  few  fickle  people,  forgetting  their  recent 
worship  of  the  regiment,  had  clamored  that  it  ought  to 
keep  its  colors  at  the  front  "  till  the  end  of  the  war,"  on 
the  ground  that  "  the  Rebellion  would  be  crushed  in  ninety 
days."  They  ungraciously  contrasted  its  return  with  the 
conduct  of  the  three  months'  and  other  regiments  from  the 
same  State,  forgetting  the  fundamental  difference  that  these 
latter  had  taken  time  to  prepare  themselves  for  a  long  stay, 


218  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

and  had  taken  not  only  time,  but  measures,  to  so  prepare 
themselves,  by  carrying  a  majority  of  recruits  to  the  war, 
who  had  joined  for  that  very  purpose,  while  the  Seventh 
had  gone  at  once,  and  first,  and  had  carried  wholly  its  own 
members,  for  the  instant  rescue  and  safety  of  Washington. 
However,  this  ungracious  criticism  was  temporary  in  du 
ration,  and  limited  even  then  to  few  people.  The  great 
heart  of  the  city  went  out  in  warm  welcome.  All  the 
press  was  cordial  in  its  greeting.  It  was  recalled  that 
the  order  from  Albany,  in  accordance  with  which  the 
Seventh  marched,  was  one  detailing  them  "  for  immediate 
service,  to  be  reported  forthwith  to  the  President  of  the 
United  States,  to  serve  until  relieved  by  other  regiments, 
or  by  a  regiment  or  regiments  of  volunteer  militia  "  ;  and 
that  the  Seventh  had  already  done  a  great  deal  more  vol 
untarily  than  this  order  contemplated.  "  The  suddenness 
of  the  call  upon  them,"  said  a  leader  in  the  Evening  Post, 
"  and  their  promptitude  in  responding  to  it,  placed  them  in 
circumstances  very  different  from  those  of  the  New  York 
regiments  which  followed  them.  They  necessarily  left 
their  business  affairs  in  an  unsettled  condition.  They  did 
not  allow  any  considerations  to  interfere  with  their  patriot 
ism  and  sense  of  duty.  All  personal  matters  were  put  in 
abeyance.  They  did  not  fill  up  their  ranks  with  recruits, 
but  went  in  a  body  just  as  they  were.  Other  regiments 
waited  for  recruits,  and,  while  waiting,  had  time  to  arrange 
their  private  affairs,  while  those  who  could  not  make  satis 
factory  arrangements  stayed  at  home.  In  fact  the  Seventh, 
being  the  most  perfectly  drilled  and  equipped  regiment, 
hurried  off  to  hold  the  ground  until  the  others  could  get 
ready  to  relieve  them ;  and  it  is  only  fair  and  right  that  they 
should  now  come  home  to  arrange  their  affairs,  as  others 
did  before  they  went.  No  one  can  doubt,  that,  should  the 
government  hereafter  require  their  services  for  any  period, 
or  for  the  war,  they  will  promptly  give  them."  The  Her- 


A   MISSION   ACCOMPLISHED.  219 

aid's  leader,  in  the  same  spirit,  said:  "We  believe  the 
administration  and  General  Scott,  in  pursuance  of  the  vol 
untary  engagement  entered  into  with  the  Seventh  Regi 
ment  of  New  York  Militia,  when  they  requested  it  to  come 
temporarily  to  Washington  in  the  hour  of  need,  have  given 
orders  for  its  return  at  the  end  of  its  month  of  service ;  and 
unless  stirring  events  or  the  public  exigencies  should  re 
quire  their  detention,  this  gallant  corps  will  probably  be 
home  in  a  day  or  two.  It  gave  the  first  impetus  to  the  ris 
ing  of  the  North.  The  regiment  started  upon  a  notice  of 
thirty-six  hours,  with  full  ranks,  consisting  of  its  active  and 
exempt  members  (three  fourths  of  the  whole),  and  no  re 
cruits.  Its  marching  numbers  exceeded  by  one  hundred 
and  fifty  its  muster  on  any  gala-day  in  its  history.  No 
other  city  regiment  had  more  than  three  hundred  of  its 
real  members  on  starting.  The  rest  are  all  recruits. 
Many  of  the  members  of  the  Seventh  left  families  behind 
unprovided  for,  and,  from  its  sudden  departure,  others  had 
no  time  to  arrange  their  business  matters,  which  have  been 
neglected  ever  since.  Several  of  them  are  bankers  and 
merchants,  and  have  suffered  severely.  One  of  the  princi 
pal  officers  is  said  to  have  failed  from  that  cause,  and 
others  are  on  the  brink  of  ruin.  This  regiment  has  ren 
dered  good  service.  It  proceeded  to  the  capital  when  dan 
ger  stared  it  in  the  face,  and  when  it  might  have  had  to 
stand  the  first  shock  of  the  enemy,  and  when  it  was  ex 
pected  that  it  must  fight  its  way  through  to  Washington." 
The  "  Veterans,"  on  their  part,  had  long  before  ex 
pressed  their  desire  to  give  a  hearty  greeting  to  their 
younger  brethren,  and  Adjutant  Asher  Taylor  had  ex 
pressed  this  desire  in  the  following  communication  to 
Colonel  Lefferts  :  — 

"  I  arrived  at  home  last  evening,  very  much  gratified  at  all  I  saw  and 
heard  of  our  regiment  at  Washington,  especially  at  its  splendid  con 
dition,  and  am  deeply  moved  by  the  solicitude  expressed  by  all  I  meet 


220  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

for  its  safe  return,  and  the-  welfare  of  its  members.  It  is  the  heart's 
blood  of  New  York.  I  am  directed  by  Colonel  Stevens  to  ask  if  it  would 
be  agreeable  to  you  to  have  a  reception  by  the  National  Guard  Reserve, 
of  which  he  is  the  commander.  He  had  a  very  satisfactory  battalion 
drill  of  his  command  last  evening,  mustering  some  three  or  four  hundred, 
all  that  arms  could  be  provided  for.  Please  command  us  in  anything 
we  can  do  for  you  or  for  the  regiment." 

On  the  31st  of  May  it  was  determined  that  the  reserve 
should  assemble  at  nine  o'clock,  A.  M.,  of  the  following  day, 
leave  the  armory  by  companies,  form  regimental  line  at 
Lafayette  Place,  and  march  to  Cortlandt  Street  Ferry,  in 
season  to  escort  the  returned  volunteers  to  the  armory. 
It  was  further  resolved  that  only  veteran  or  exempt  mem 
bers  of  the  regiment  should  be  allowed  to  parade.  On  the 
same  day  the  Executive  Committee  of  the  Union  Defence 
Committee  held  a  meeting,  and  passed  the  following  reso 
lutions  :  — 

Resolved,  That  this  committee  desire  to  express  their  cordial  recog 
nition  of  the  efficient  services  rendered  to  the  cause  of  the  country,  at  a 
critical  emergency  of  its  public  affairs,  by  the  Seventh  Regiment  of  New 
York  State  Militia,  commanded  by  Colonel  Marshall  Lefferts ;  and  shar 
ing  fully  in  the  general  feeling  of  gratification  which  pervades  the  com 
munity  at  learning  that  the  Commanding  General  of  the  United  States 
Army,  under  the  sanction  of  the  President  of  the  United  States,  has 
acknowledged,  in  special  general  orders,  "  the  important  service  rendered 
by  that  regiment  in  an  hour  of  dark  and  trying  necessity,"  the  com 
mittee  desire  to  unite  their  congratulations  with  those  of  their  fellow- 
citizens  in  extending  a  welcome  hand  to  cheer  the  return  of  a  body  of 
soldiers  who  have  conferred  such  high  honor  on  the  city  of  New  York. 

Resolved,  Tnat  this  committee  will  take  pleasure  in  attending  the  re 
ception  to  be  given  to  the  Seventh  Regiment  on  its  arrival  in  this  city 
to-morrow. 

Resolved,  That  these  proceedings  be  published,  and  a  copy  furnished 

to  Colonel  Lefferts. 

J.  J.  ASTOR,  JR., 

Chairman  pro  tern.  Executive  Committee. 
PROSPER  M.  WETMORE, 

Secretary  Executive  Committee 

At  ten  o'clock,  on  the  morning  of  June  1st,  ladies  bearing 


A    MISSION   ACCOMPLISHED.  221 

baskets  heaped  with  exquisite  flowers  began  to  decorate  the 
front  of  the  armory,  the  main  entrance,  the  stairways,  and 
the  facings  of  the  Seventh  Street  entrance.  Soon  the 
words  "  WELCOME  HOME  "  appeared  over  the  arch  in  ever 
green  letters,  beautifully  bordered  with  white  and  red  roses. 
At  one  o'clock  the  Reserve,  three  hundred  strong,  under 
the  command  of  Colonel  Stevens,  marched  to  Jersey  Ferry, 
and  stacked  arms.  At  two  o'clock  a  large  detachment  from 
the  Sickles  Brigade,  and  very  many  of  the  officers  of  that 
brigade,  preceded  by  one  of  their  bands,  joined  the  escort. 
Knots  of  officers  from  other  corps,  a  body  of  juvenile 
"  Zouaves,"  and  the  Union  Defence  Committee,  all  pro 
ceeded  in  the  same  direction ;  and  a  multitude  of  citizens, 
including  many  ladies,  thronged  the  line  of  march,  crowded 
around  the  ferry,  and  filled  the  railway  depot  in  Jersey 
City.  It  was  absolutely  the  pageant  of  the  19th  of  April 
repeated,  with  the  godspeed  turned  to  hearty  congratula 
tion. 

At  half  past  four,  p.  M.,  the  regiment  reached  Jersey 
City,  and  was  greeted  by  the  throngs  in  the  great  flag- 
crowned  galleries,  and  all  the  neighborhood  of  the  depot, 
with  tumultuous  cheers  and  waving  of  handkerchiefs.  The 
welcoming  crowd  was  even  larger  and  more  enthusiastic 
here  than  that  which  six  weeks  before  had  bidden  it  adieu  ; 
and  when  the  regiment  took  the  ferry-boat,  a  final  shout 
rent  the  air,  the  artillery  boomed  from  the  docks,  and,  as 
before,  the  various  craft  on  the  river  showed  their  flags, 
and  cheered  heartily  as  the  boat  steamed  across.  As  for 
the  enthusiasm  amid  which  the  men  again  set  foot  in  New 
York,  those  who  survive  the  war  still  hold  it  in  memory. 

When  brief  greetings  had  been  exchanged  between  those 
who,  six  weeks  before,  feared  they  had  parted  forever,  and 
when  Mr.  Astor  had  presented  the  Resolutions  of  the  De 
fence  Committee,  the  Seventh  and  its  escort  took  up  the 
line  of  march  through  Cortlandt  Street,  Broadway,  Union 


222  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Square,  and  Fourth  Avenue,  to  its  armory.  With  the 
streaming  flags  and  bunting  and  inscriptions  of  welcome, 
the  streets  thronged  with  men  heartily  cheering,  every  build 
ing  bright  with  women  waving  handkerchiefs,  the  booming 
of  cannon,  and  the  merry  peal  of  the  bells  of  Trinity,  with 
its  familiar  chimes,  the  Seventh  knew  that  it  had  not  lost 
its  old  place  in  the  love  and  respect  of  the  Empire  City. 

The  hotels  and  public  buildings  all  along  the  route  were 
covered  with  flags,  and  bore  scores  of  such  inscriptions  as 

these :  — 

WELCOME. 

BRAVE  GUARDS,  YOU  HAVE  PERFORMED  YOUR  DUTY. 

ALWAYS  READY. 

DEFENDERS  OF  OUR  FLAG,  WELCOME. 
GOD  BLESS  YOU. 

Every  on-looker  noted  some  change  which  six  weeks' 
service  had  wrought,  —  the  bronzed  and  hardy  look  of  the 
men ;  or  their  uniforms,  neat,  but  worn  and  travel-stained  ; 
or  such  little  fantastic  emblems  of  campaigning  as  the 
black  and  battered  pipes  worn  in  the  caps.  At  the  armory 
the  enthusiasm  was  very  great.  Mr.  Astor,  the  members 
of  the  Union  Defence  Committee,  and  other  distinguished 
citizens,  had  already  gathered  in  the  balcony,  and  it  was  the 
purpose  of  Colonel  Lefferts  that  they  should  say  a  word  ,to 
the  men  in  behalf  of  the  citizens  of  New  York.  But  the 
spontaneous  greetings  of  the  multitude,  and  the  wild  excite 
ment  and  cheering,  made  any  formal  welcome  impossible. 
No  one  could  be  heard  ;  and  Colonel  Lefferts,  simply  rais 
ing  and  waving  the  flag  amid  torrents  of  applause,  abruptly 
concluded  all  ceremonies.  The  companies  marched  to  their 
rooms,  singing  and  cheering,  and  a  hearty  shake  of  the  hand 
was  then  ready  for  friends  and  kin.  Nor  was  the  ovation 
ended  there  ;  for  any  soldier  who  passed  from  the  armorj 
was  cheered  again,  and  cheered  as  he  passed  through  tho 
streets  to  his  home. 


A   MISSION   ACCOMPLISHED. 

The  same  day  Colonel  Lefferts  issued  the  following  or 
der :  — 

"  The  regiment  will  assemble  at  Head-quarters,  on  Monday,  3d  instant, 
at  half  past  one  o'clock,  p.  M.,  fully  equipped,  for  the  purpose  of  being 
mustered  out  of  the  service  of  the  United  States  by  Lieutenant  M.  Coggs- 
well,  Eighth  Infantry  U.  S.  A.,  who  has  been  assigned  that  duty. 

"  The  Colonel  takes  this  opportunity  to  express  to  the  officers  and  sol 
diers  his  deep  sense  of  the  manly  virtues  and  patriotism  which  have 
actuated  all  in  their  discharge  of  duty,  from  the  time  we  received  our 
marching  orders  for  the  protection  of  the  Federal  capital  to  the  p?  esent 
time ;  how  far  the  objects  of  the  mission  have  been  accomplished,  and 
how  well  the  duty  has  been  performed,  must  be  left  to  the  impartial 
judgment  of  the  future.  I  congratulate  you,  brother  soldiers,  that  it  was 
our  good  fortune  to  lead  the  strong  and  noble  army  of  our  good  and  loyal 
State,  which  stands  with  poised  arm  to  strike  down  all  who  may  defy 
the  power  of  the  national  ensign,  which  it  has  planted  in  the  face  of 
those  who  would  trail  its  sacred  folds  in  the  dust. 

"  Let  it  be  understood  that  we  are  ready,  at  a  moment's  warning,  to 
march  at  the  call  of  the  constituted  authorities  in  defence  of  our  flag 
and  country." 

On  Monday,  the  3d  of  June,  1861,  five-and-forty  days 
after  its  march  on  the  19th  of  April,  the  regiment  was  mus 
tered  out  of  service.  The  same  evening  the  Board  of  Coun- 
cilmen  unanimously  adopted  the  following  Preamble  and 
Resolutions,  offered  by  Mr.  Lent :  — 

"  Whereas,  The  officers  and  men  of  the  gallant  Seventh  Regiment 
New  York  State  Militia,  noted  for  the  alacrity  with  which  they  always 
respond  to  the  call  of  duty,  after  having  nobly  and  successfully  aided  in 
accomplishing  the  task  of  opening  the  way  to  and  protecting  the  capital 
of  the  nation,  whilst  in  imminent  danger,  from  armed  traitors,  who  be 
leaguered  it  on  every  side,  have  just  returned  to  our  city,  where,  both  as 
a  military  organization  and  as  distinguished  and  patriotic  citizens,  they 
have  enjoyed  a  wide-spread  reputation,  which  their  soldierly  demeanor, 
united  vigilance,  and  unflagging  energy  in  discharging  the  arduous  duties 
from  which  they  have  just  returned  prove  them  to  have  sd*  well  merited; 
Be  it  therefore 

"  Resolved,  That  we,  the  Common  Council  of  the  city  of  New  York, 
welcome  them  back  with  feelings  of  joy  and  gratitude  to  our  city,  which 
feels  a  just  pride  in  them  both  as  citizens  and  soldiers,  and  to  their 


224  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

families  and  homes,  which  they  have  honored  by  their  noble  demeanor, 
and  now  make  happy  by  their  presence. 

"  Resolved,  That  the  clerk  of  the  Common  Council  have  the  foregoing 
Resolutions  suitably  engrossed,  and  forward  the  same  to  the  regiment." 

These  Resolutions,  being  duly  passed  by  the  aldermen 
and  approved  by  the  Mayor,  were  presented,  handsomely 
engrossed,  to  the  regiment.  Soon  after,  the  Union  Defence 
Committee  made  a  report  of  their  services,  in  which  they 
said  :  — 

"Massachusetts  may  justly  claim  the  merit  of  having  placed  the  first 
regiment  of  citizen  defenders  of  the  Constitution  in  the  field,  but  her 
patriotic  soldiers  were  promptly  followed  and  speedily  outnumbered  by 
those  of  New  York.  The  Seventh  Regiment,  commanded  by  Colonel 
Marshall  Lefferts,  so  long  the  pride  of  the  city  of  New  York,  abandoned 
the  ties  of  home  and  business,  arid  with  an  alacrity  that  has  scarcely 
a  parallel  in  military  history,  marched  its  thousand  disciplined  men 
steadily  to  the  capital,  where  it  performed,  efficiently  and  faithfully,  all 
its  duties,  and  whence  it  has  returned,  at  the  close  of  its  full  term  of 
service,  distinguished  by  the  grateful  commendation  of  the  President, 
and  the  Commanding  General  of  the  Army." 


OFFERS   OF   SERVICE. 


225 


CHAPTER    XIII. 

OFFERS    OF   SERVICE. 

0  ended,  as  I   have  written, 
the    first    campaign   of   the 
Seventh  Regiment  as  an  or- 
,     ganization  during  the  Rebel 
lion. 

As  soon  as  the  regiment 
was  mustered  out,  its  mem 
bers  began  to  return  to  the 
front,  "  for  three  years  or 
the  war."  That  date  of 
muster-out  was  June  3d. 
Less  than  ten  days  there 
after  a  list  was  published 
of  members  of  the  Seventh 
who  had  already  accepted 
commissions  in  the  United 
States  service,  many  be 
fore  the  regimental  cam 
paign  was  ended.  This  list  comprised  four  colonels, 
two  lieutenant-colonels,  two  majors,  twenty-one  captains, 
seven  adjutants,  and  forty-one  lieutenants,  several  of  the 
latter  being  in  the  Regular  Army,  —  a  total  of  seventy 
officers  up  to  that  date,  in  a  list  announced  to  be  "  by 
no  means  complete."  Very  truly  had  General  Scott  and 
General  McDowell  pronounced  this  a  a  regiment  of  of- 
cers."*  Before  winter  the  blood  of  the  Seventh  had 


*  "  During  the  recent  stay  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  in  Washington,  General  Scott, 
15 


226  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

crimsoned  nearly  every  battle-field  in  Virginia.  The  high- 
souled  and  brilliant  Wintlirop,  on  the  10th  of  June  lay 
dead  on  the  field  of  Big  Bethel,  in  the  uniform  of  the 
Seventh  Regiment.  Farnham,  the  born  soldier  and  worthy 
successor  of  Ells  worth,  brave,  patriotic,  and  full  of  promise, 
received  his  death-wound  soon  after  at  Manassas.  The  gal 
lant  Alden  was  buried  a  little  later  on  the  disastrous  field 
of  Ball's  Bluff. 

Early  in  autumn,  Colonel  Lefferts,  who  had  already  sent 
five  officers,  at  his  request,  to  Colonel  Lander,  then  com 
manding  a  brigade  in  Western  Virginia,  desiring  to  open 
a  new  avenue  of  service,  despatched  the  following  letter  to 
General  James  S.  Wheat,  Adjutant-General  of  the  Virginia 
Militia,  at  Wheeling :  — 

"  SIR,  —  Several  of  the  gentlemen  in  my  command  have  received  ap 
pointments  in  Western  Virginia,  either  in  regiments  as  line  officers,  or 
attached  to  regiments  as  instructors,  which  personally  has  given  me 
much  satisfaction. 

"  My  object  in  writing  is  to  ask  whether  you  can  find  places  for  any 
more,  for  I  have  a  number  who  wish  to  enter  the  service,  and  who  are 
competent  and  reliable,  —  if  the  matter  is  placed  in  my  hands,  I  shall 
send  none  others ;  while  I  have  a  pride  that  all  who  go  from  my 
regiment  shall  do  it  credit,  I  have  a  deep  interest  in  the  cause  in  which 
they  enlist,  and  wish  none  but  worthy  and  capable  ones  to  represent 
it." 

While  attending  to  these  duties,  Colonel  Lefferts  was 
busily  engaged,  also,  in  endeavoring  to  keep  up  the  unpre 
cedented  condition  of  soldierly  discipline  and  efficiency  to 
which  the  regiment  had  arrived  by  reason  of  its  experience 
in  actual  service,  —  a  matter  of  some  difficulty,  owing  to  con 
stant  depletions.     Ten  days  after  the  return  of  the  regi 
ment,  Major  Shaler,  an  exceedingly  able  and  accomplished 
officer,  was  commissioned  as  Lieutenant-Colonel  of  the  Six 
ty-Fifth  Regiment  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States 

in  reply  to  the  offer  of  Colonel  Lefferts  to  keep  the  regiment  in  active  service,  said: 
4  Why,  Colonel,  you  do  not  want  your  regiment  here,  —  you  have  a  regiment  ot 
officers.'  "  —  New  York  Times,  June  12. 


OFFERS   OF    SERVICE.  227 

Chasseurs),  and  Lieutenant-Colonel  Pond  was  forced  to 
resign  his  commission  from  ill  health,  thus  leaving  Colo 
nel  Lefferts  for  a  time  without  field  officers.  However, 
in  September,  Captain  James  Price,  of  the  Third  Company, 
was  chosen  Lieutenant^Colonel ;  and,  in  December,  Captain 
Benjamin  M.  Nevers,  of  the  Sixth  Company,  w^as  chosen  Ma 
jor.  Both  these  officers  had  accompanied  the  regiment  on 
the  march  to  Washington.  As  an  organization,  meanwhile, 
the  regiment,  besides  parading  as  funeral  escort  to  General 
Lyon  and  Colonel  Montieul,  and  to  its  own  Winthrop,  Farn- 
ham,  and  Alden,  paraded  also  fo'r  the  reception  of  several 
regiments  returning  from  the  seat  of  war,  and  with  the 
greatest  pleasure,  on  the  31st  of  July,  to  welcome  its  gal 
lant  comrades  in  campaign,  the  Eighth  Massachusetts. 

In  giving  the  order  for  muster-out,  on  the  return  of  his 
regiment,  Colonel  Lefferts  had  closed  with  these  words : 
"  Let  it  be  understood  that  ive  are  ready  at  a  moment's 
warning  to  march  at  the  call  of  the  constituted  authorities 
in  defence  of  our  flag  and  country"  This  promise  he 
made  good  by  allowing  no  opportunity  to  pass  without  ten 
dering  the  services  of  the  regiment,  both  in  fort  and  field. 

Immediately  on  receiving  the  startling  and  unexpected 
news  that  the  army  had  been  defeated  at  Manassas,  on  the 
21st  of  July,  1861,  and  that  the  capital  itself  was  menaced, 
Colonel  Lefferts  telegraphed  to  the  Secretary  of  War  that 
his  regiment  was  "  ready  to  march  forthwith  "  to  Washing 
ton.  But  the  peril  proved  to  be  less  imminent  than  at  first 
reported,  and  as  three  years'  troops  were  then  pouring  in 
in  great  numbers,  the  offer  was  not  accepted. 

To  Governor  Morgan  he  proposed  that  the  regiment 
should  learn  to  use  the  heavy  guns  in  the  harbor  forts,  so 
that  in  case  of  need  the  garrisons  could  be  reinforced  in 
stantly  by  efficient  troops,  —  a  practice  afterwards  adopted 
by  militia  regiments  in  other  coastwise  cities.  In  the  mid 
dle  of  December,  notwithstanding  the  severity  of  the  season, 


228  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

Colonel  Lefferts  renewed  and  urged  that  suggestion,  this 
time  in  a  letter  to  the  Governor,  saying :  — 

"  Upon  the  return  of  the  regiment  under  my  command  from  Wash 
ington,  I  expressed  to  the  Union  Defence  Committee,  and  to  certain 
gentlemen  who  promised  to  communicate  with  you,  the  desire  of  the 
regiment  to  continue  prepared  for  active  service  in  case  of  being  called 
upon,  and  suggested  that  we  might  be  ordered  to  one  of  the  forts  in  our 
harbor,  for  the  purpose  of  instruction  and  practice  in  heavy  sea-coast 
artillery.  Subsequent  events  have  only  confirmed  my  previous  views  of 
the  importance  of  the  great  State  of  New  York  having  within  itself  a 
sufficient  number  of  practised  artillerists,  who  could,  at  an  hour's  notice, 
occupy  our  forts  and  man  the  guns,  the  great  safeguards  of  the  city  of 
New  York  and  her  vast  commercial  interests 

"  The  regiment  can  be  put  on  duty  by  detachments,  and  I  can  safely 
say  that  within  a  very  short  period  the  Executive  can  rely  upon  eight 
hundred  to  one  thousand  competent  gunners,  each  capable  of  com 
manding  as  '  the  chief  of  piece.' 

"  The  subject  of  our  coast  defences  has  been  of  late  so  elaborately  and 
scientifically  discussed,  that  I  have  nothing  further  to  urge  in  reference 
to  the  matter,  beyond  the  necessity  of  giving  to  the  whole  a  practical 
turn.  If,  to  effect  this,  the  services  of  myself  and  my  command  can  be 
made  available,  I  can  only  assure  your  Excellency  that  we  shall  be  found 
ready  and  willing  to  obey  your  orders." 

In  reply  the  Governor  sent  his  thanks,  with  assurances, 
that,  "  when  circumstances  should  make  it  necessary"  to 
take  the  course  indicated,  "  the  prompt  and  patriotic  offer 
of  the  Seventh  would  not  be  forgotten." 

From  August  to  February  the  great  army  lay,  organizing 
and  drilling,  "  quiet  on  the  Potomac."  But  winter  wore 
away,  and  the  first  fortnight  in  February  was  thick  with 
rumor  of  advance.  As  soon,  therefore,  as  authentic  tidings 
came  that  General  McClellan  purposed  to  fight  "  the  great, 
decisive  battle  of  the  war,"  Colonel  Lefferts  hastened  to 
ask  for  the  Seventh  a  share  in  that  struggle,  proposing 
that  the  Seventh  should  "  take  the  field  "  for  a  short  pe 
riod,  to  "meet  the  sudden  emergency"  of  the  "battle  on 
the  line  of  the  Potomac  now  near  at  hand."  The  following 
is  the  letter :  — 


OFFERS   OF   SERVICE.  229 

NEW  YORK,  February  21,  1862. 
MAJOR-GENERAL  GEORGE  B.  MCCLELLAN,  Commander-in-Chief  United 

States  Army,  Washington. 

SIR,  —  I  have  been  led  to  the  opinion,  from  circumstances  transpiring 
within  the  last  week  or  two,  that  you  may  need  more  men  to  fully  carry 
out  your  military  plans,  and  that  a  battle  on  the  line  of  the  Potomac  is 
near  at  hand.  If  this  is  so,  I  feel  confident  that  the  members  of  my 
regiment  will  respond  promptly  and  heartily  to  any  demand  from  you, 
and  that  you  can  rely  upon  eight  hundred  to  one  thousand  well-drilled 
and  effective  men.  You  are  probably  aware  that  the  regiment  is  entirely 
composed  of  business  men,  clerks,  etc. ;  and  while,  therefore,  they  cannot 
take  the  field  for  a  long  period,  with  their  present  organization,  yet  they 
can,  as  they  did  in  the  early  part  of  this  struggle,  meet  a  sudden  emer 
gency,  and  are  now  ready  for  that  purpose. 

I  am,  sir,  with  great  respect,  your  obedient  servant, 

M.  LEFFERTS, 
Colonel  Commanding  Seventh  Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  M. 

Lest,  through  the  absorbing  cares  of  the  coming  cam 
paign,  the  General  should  overlook  his  proposal,  Colonel 
Lefferts  took  the  precaution  to  send  a  similar  message  to 
the  Secretary  of  War.  From  the  latter  the  response  was 
first  heard  in  the  following  telegram  :  — 

WASHINGTON,  February  26. 
COLONEL  M.  LEFFERTS,  New  York. 

The  Secretary  of  War  was  duly  notified  by  me  of  the  desire  and 
readiness  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  to  be  called  to  Washington  in  case 
of  any  emergency  which  would  render  their  services  valuable  to  the 
government.  The  Secretary  expressed  his  gratification  at  the  tender 
of  service,  and  desired  me  to  express  his  thanks  to  you,  and  say,  that, 
should  any  emergency  arise,  he  would  unhesitatingly  call  upon  you  and 
your  regiment.  Respectfully, 

E.  S.  SANFORD. 

This  received,  Colonel  Lefferts,  while  awaiting  the  re 
sponse  to  his  letter  from  head-quarters,  got  his  command  in 
readiness  for  service.  The  answer  came,  at  length,  as  fol 
lows  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  OF  THE  ARMY,  March  7,  1862. 

COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Command'g  Seventh  Reg't.  N.  Y.  S.  M. 
COLONEL,  —  I  am  directed  by  the  Commander-in-Chief  to  acknowl 
edge  the  receipt  of  your  letter  of  the  21st  ultimo,  offering  the  services 


230  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

of  your  regiment  to  the  government,  and  to  reply  that  the  General  com 
manding  will  in  all  probability  be  glad  to  avail  himself  of  services  of  the 
Seventh  Regiment  within  ten  days  or  a  fortnight. 

I  am,  Colonel,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

EDW.  McK.  HUDSON, 

Lieutenant-  Colonel  and  A.  D.  C. 

From  this  reply  it  was  concluded,  not  only  that  the  for 
ward  movement  would  take  place  "  within  ten  days  or  a 
fortnight,"  but  that  the  Seventh  Regiment  would  have 
some  share  in  it.  Accordingly,  Colonel  Lefferts  directed 
his  commanders  of  companies,  "  without  giving  unneces 
sary  publicity  to  the  matter,  to  notify  their  commands  at 
once  of  the  strong  probability  of  their  being  called  upon  at 
short  notice  for  active  service,  so  that  their  arrangements 
could  be  made  to  hold  themselves  in  readiness."  *  He  then 
ordered  the  Quartermaster  to  make  forthwith  a  personal 
inspection  of  the  camp  equipage  and  stores,  and  to  report 
in  writing  to  him  upon  their  condition. 

*  Extract  from  the  Regimental  Minutes. 
"  NATIONAL  GUARD  ARMORY,  Saturday  evening,  March  8, 1862. 

"  On  the  adjournment  of  the  meeting  of  the  Dress  Committee,  Colonel  Lefferts 
requested  the  field  officers  and  commandants  of  companies  to  remain,  —  being  pres 
ent  Lieutenant-Colonel  Price,  Major  Nevers,  Brevet-Colonel  Shumway,  Captain 
Clark,  Lieutenant-Commanding  Schermerhorn,  and  the  Military  Secretary. 

"  The  Colonel  then  mentioned  the  fact  of  his  having  received  a  letter  from  the 
Commander-in-Chief,  in  reply  to  his  of  21st  February,  in  which  General  McClellan 
states,  through  his  aide-de-camp,  that  in  all  probability  the  services  of  the  regiment 
would  be  required  in  ten  days  or  a  fortnight.  This  letter  was  dated  7th  instant,  by 
mistake,  being  postmarked  6th.  The  Colonel  requested  the  captains  present, 
without  giving  unnecessary  publicity  to  the  matter,  to  notify,  without  delay,  their 
commands  of  the  strong  probability  of  their  being  again  called  upon,  at  short 
notice,  for  active  service,  that  they  might  make  necessary  arrangements,  and  hold 
themselves  in  readiness.  He  said  that  he  should  rely  upon  the  captains  to  carry 
out  these  instructions. 

"  The  meeting  then  adjourned,  the  Colonel  stating  that  he  should  call  a  meeting 
of  commandants  of  companies  not  present  this  evening  for  Monday  evening,  to  ex 
plain  the  matter  to  them  and  give  them  similar  instructions. 

"Monday,  March  10th.  —  The  following  notice  was  sent  to  Captains  Bensel, 
Speight,  Young,  Farrar,  Haws,  and  Easton.  Captain  Riblet  was  verbally  notified 
to  the  same  effect  by  the  Military  Secretary. 

"  DEAR  SIR,  —  The  Colonel  requests  that  you  will  attend  a  meeting  of  the  com- 


OFFERS    OF    SERVICE.  231 

But  the  second  campaign  of  the  Seventh  was  not  yet  to 
begin.  A  few  days  after  General  McClellan's  notification 
to  the  regiment,  the  enemy  evacuated  his  position  at  Ma- 
nassas.  Three  weeks  later  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  had 
been  gathered  from  its  winter  bivouacs  and  deployed  on 
the  peninsula  formed  by  the  York  and  James  Rivers. 
There  was  to  be  no  "  battle  on  the  line  of  the  Potomac." 
It  is,  however,  none  the  less  pleasant  and  proud  a  record 
in  the  regimental  annals,  that,  at  this  seeming  crisis  of  the 
war,  the  battalion  was  offered  both  to  the  general  com 
manding  and  to  the  War  Bureau  for  any  duty  that  might 
be  assigned  to  it.  All  the  services  and  all  the  offers  of 
service  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  were  at  the  hour  of  peril 
or  the  pivotal  point  of  decision.  It  pioneered  the  path  to 
Washington  when  the  road  was  most  thickly  beset  with 
dangers.  It  remained  on  duty  in  Washington  until  the 
capital  was  safe.  In  the  doubtful  hour  that  succeeded  Bull 
Run  it  again  volunteered  to  go  to  the  front.  When  a  great 
battle  was  expected  in  the  spring,  it  volunteered  again.  In 
the  summer  of  1862  and  in  the  summer  of  1863,  when  the 
enemy  assumed  the  offensive  and  menaced  the  North,  it 
marched  at  a  few  hours'  notice.  Let  us  now  describe  in 
course  these  latter  events. 

mandants  of  companies,  to  be  held  at  the  armory  this  evening  at  eight  o'clock, 
on  business  of  importance. 

'"  Yours  respectfully, 

"  WM.  H.  ALLEN,  Military  Secretary. 

"  In  compliance  with  the  above,  at  quarter  before  nine,  P.  M.,  were  present  in 
the  council-room  Colonel  Lefferts,  Captains  Easton,  Haws,  Farrar,  Young,  Riblet, 
and  Speight,  and  Lieutenant  Meday.  The- Colonel  explained  the  purpose  of  the 
meeting,  and  read  his  letter  to  General  McClellan,  and  the  reply,  stating,  as  on 
Saturday  evening,  that  he  wished  the  men  quietly  notified  to  hold  themselves  in 
readiness,  and  should  rely  upon  the  commandants  to  see  that  everything  necessary 
was  done.  The  subject  was  then  discussed,  and  the  feeling  expressed  that  the 
members  of  the  regiment  would  respond  promptly  to  the  call;  and  the  meeting 
adjourned." 


232 


HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 


CHAPTER    XIV. 


THE    BALTIMORE    CAMPAIGN. 

URING  an  anxious  month  in 
the  spring  of  1862,  the  gaze 
of  the  country  had  been 
fixed  upon  two  great  ar 
mies,  which,  like  a  pair  of 
wrestlers,  cautiously  advan 
cing  and  retreating  on  the 
York  and  James  "Penin 
sula,"  now  feinting,  now  par 
rying,  now  striking,  seemed 
ever  ready,  yet  ever  reluc 
tant,  to  hazard  the  decisive 
clutch,  when  suddenly,  to 
wards  the  end  of  May,  a 
startling  apparition  diverted 
all  eyes  to  the  Valley  of 
the  Shenandoah.  Stonewall 
Jackson,  with  a  compact  column  of  fifteen  thousand  men, 
in  part  withdrawn  from  McClellan's  front,  before  Rich 
mond,  suddenly  burst  from  the  head  of  the  valley  upon 
Fremont,  who  was  stationed  as  warder  of  its  passes, 
dealt  him  a  single  furious  blow,  and,  swerving  without 
a  pause  to  repeat  it,  swept  down  through  the  valley  in  an 
avalanche,  and  fell  full  upon  Banks,  whose  smaller  corps 
drifted  helplessly  before  him,  and  only  paused,  spent  and 
broken,  within  the  borders  of  Maryland. 


THE   BALTIMORE   CAMPAIGN.  233 

The  strategic  purpose  of  this  division  is  now  a  matter  of 
undisputed  history,  as  it  soon  became  one  of  bitter  experi 
ence.  With  great  fatuity,  the  campaign  had  been  opened 
by  a  division  of  the  Union  forces  into  four  armies,  there 
being,  besides  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  proper,  an  aggre 
gate  of  sixty  thousand  men  embraced  in  the  commands  of 
Generals  McDowell,  Fremont,  and  Banks,  none  of  which 
were  in  supporting  distance  of  each  other  or  of  General  Mc- 
Clellan.  But  when  the  latter  reached  the  Chickahominy, 
McDowell  was  ordered  forward  to  join  him ;  and,  to  avert 
this  reinforcement  of  forty  thousand  fresh  troops,  General 
J.  E.  Johnston,  who  commanded  the  Confederate  forces, 
ordered  General  Jackson  to  gather  in  hand  the  troops  left 
with  him  in  the  valley,  now  largely  reinforced  from  Rich 
mond,  and  to  march  them  swiftly  northward,  so  as  to  men 
ace  the  national  capital. 

History  has  recorded,  too,  how  successfully  this  purpose 
was  accomplished.  McDowell's  forty  thousand  men  were 
halted  and  turned  aside  to  "  bag  Jackson  " ;  who,  mean 
while,  adroitly  slipping  by  his  converging  pursuers,  rejoined 
Johnston.  Then,  with  the  Union  forces  weakened  and  the 
Confederate  force  strengthened,  there  succeeded  the  seven 
days'  battles,  which  left  the  former  on  the  banks  of  the 
James. 

But,  for  the  moment,  what  fate  might  befall  the  Chicka 
hominy  campaign  was  not  thought  of  in  Washington  or  at 
the  North.  The  only  cry  was  that  of  April,  1861,  "  The 
capital  is  in  danger !  "  The  news  ran  that  a  powerful 
army,  stealing  from  McClellan's  front,  had  swept  away 
everything  in  its  course,  and  menaced  the  North  with  inva 
sion  and  the  capital  with  capture.  If  Washington  was  wild 
with  excitement,  the  North  was  stricken  with  alarm.  "  Save 
the  capital !  "  was  all  it  could  coherently  utter. 

The  Seventh  Regiment  heard,  as  it  heard  in  April,  1861, 
and  marched. 


234  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

The  afternoon  of  Saturday,  the  24th  of  May,  that  day  on 
which  Banks  commenced  his  retreat  from  Strasburg,  Colo 
nel  Lefferts  received  the  following  news  of  the  stirring 
events  in  Virginia  :  — 

To  COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  12  Albion  Street. 

General  Wool  reports  Rebels  moving  north  from  Richmond,  and 
Sec'y  State  telegraphs  to  governors,  "  Hold  all  military  in  readiness  for 
moving."  Will  keep  you  posted. 

C.  SUMNER. 

The  general  despatch  thus  alluded  to  as  having  been  sent 
to  the  governors  is  now  historic  and  famous.  But  the 
telegram  sent  by  the  War  Bureau  to  Governor  Morgan  was 
special  and  significant.  It  ran  as  follows  :  — 

WASHINGTON,  May  24. 
MAJOR-GENERAL  MORGAN,  Albany. 

The  operations  of  the  enemy  on  the  Shenandoah  may  require  speedy 
reinforcements.  Please  organize  one  regiment  as  speedily  as  possible. 
The  Seventh  New  York  should  also  be  in  readiness  to  move  if  called  for. 

EDWIN  M.  STANTON,  Sec'y  War. 

To  meet  this  request,  Governor  Morgan  caused  the  fol 
lowing  telegram  to  be  sent  to  Colonel  Lefferts :  — 

ALBANY,  May  24,  1862,  3.16,  p.  M. 
COLONEL  M.  LEFFERTS. 

The  Governor  desires  the  Seventh  Regiment  should  be  in  readiness  to 
meet  any  call  of  the  government.  Please  inform  me  by  telegraph  its 

present  strength. 

THOS.  HILLHOUSE. 

To  this  telegram  Colonel  Lefferts  replied,  a  quarter  of  an 
hour  later,  as  follows :  — 

u  Your  telegraph  despatch  this  moment,  three  o'clock  thirty  minutes, 
received,  and  am  ready  for  service.  Our  rolls  show  about  nine  hundred. 
A  fair  proportion  can  be  relied  upon." 

On  Sunday  night,  news  having  reached  the  government 
that  Banks,  harassed  by  the  exultant  enemy,  had  retreated 
fifty-three  miles  since  Saturday  morning,  and  had  been 
driven  to  the  Potomac  itself,  President  Lincoln  called  upon 


THE   BALTIMORE   CAMPAIGN.  235 

Governor  Morgan  to  send  him  the  militia  of  the  city  of 
New  York,  to  help  check  the  enemy  and  defend  Washing 
ton.  An  hour  before  midnight,  Colonel  Leiferts  received 
by  telegraph  from  the  Governor  an  order  to  proceed  as  soon 
as  possible  to  the  seat  of  war,  and  hurriedly  wrote  and  de 
spatched  to  the  morning  papers  a  notice  to  the  Seventh 
Regiment  to  assemble  at  nine  o'clock  of  the  same  (Monday) 
morning.  Before  this  hour,  he  telegraphed  the  Governor, 
u  I  have  a  meeting  of  my  regiment  at  nine  o'clock  this 
morning.  What  can  I  say  to  them  about  length  of  time  we 
shall  probably  be  absent?"  At  half  past  ten,  A.  M.,  the 
answer  came :  "  The  Governor  directs  me  to  reply,  that 
the  Seventh  will  be  mustered  for  three  months'  service. 
THOMAS  HILLHOUSE." 

Meanwhile,  at  9,  A.  M.,  a  large  body  of  the  regiment, 
having  seen  the  notice  in  the  morning  papers,  assembled  at 
the  armory,  and  were  ordered  to  prepare  to  march  the 
same  day  for  three  months'  service.  Six,  p.  M.,  was  fixed 
for  the  hour  of  departure,  and  the  nine  hours'  interim  was 
devoted  to  notifying  other  members  and  preparing  for  the 
campaign. 

At  the  appointed  hour  the  regiment  marched,  six  hundred 
strong,  despite  depletions,  brevity  of  notice,  and  the  absence 
of  members  in  the  country  for  the  summer  ;  large  accessions 
were  soon  after  made  to  its  ranks.  Of  the  enthusiasm  of 
the  city  upon  the  departure,  it  need  only  be  said  that  it 
was  almost  a  repetition  of  that  of  thirteen  months  before, 
even  as  the  excitement  and  anxiety  of  the  North  fell  little 
short  of  those  of  the  19th  of  April,  1861.  As  before,  the 
regiment  did  not  wait  for  the  formality  of  a  muster  into  the 
service.  "  The  influence  of  their  example,"  wrote  Ad 
jutant-General  Hillhouse,  next  day,  to  Secretary  Stanton, 
"  on  other  regiments  and  volunteers,  was  most  beneficial." 
The  only  militia  regiment  that  marched  that  night  was  the 
Seventh ;  but  on  the  same  day  the  Governor  ordered  the 


236  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

Eighth,  Eleventh,  Seventy-First,  and  Thirty-Seventh  Regi 
ments  to  get  themselves  in  readiness  to  follow,  and,  in  fact, 
within  the  next  four  days,  ten  regiments  were  off.  The 
Seventh,  as  in  1861,  led  the  column. 

A  New  York  journal,  in  describing  the  meeting  of 
the  Seventh  on  Monday  morning,  says :  "  Shortly  before 
nine  o'clock  Colonel  Lefferts  arrived  at  the  armory,  and 
was  received  with  loud  demonstrations  of  applause.  The 
despatch  from  Secretary  Stan  ton  to  Governor  Morgan,  call 
ing  for  one  regiment  of  militia  from  this  State,  accom 
panied  by  a  special  request  for  the  Seventh,  was  then  read 
to  the  men,  together  with  the  subsequent  requisition  for 
the  other  regiments.  The  reading  was  received  with  the 
most  enthusiastic  demonstrations  of  applause,  the  men 
clapping  their  hands  and  cheering  vociferously.  The  Colo 
nel  then  informed  them  that  they  would  be  required  to  be 
ready  that  evening,  as  he  wished  them  to  be  first  on  the 
war-path.  This  announcement  electrified  the  troops,  and 
cheer  after  cheer  resounded  through  the  building.  The 
regiment  was  then  dismissed,  the  men  proceeding  to  their 
respective  meeting-rooms,  and  such  an  overhauling  of  lock 
ers  as  ensued  was  never  witnessed  there  before."  Another 
paper  of  the  same  city  describes  the  scene  with  similar 
spirit.  "  As  early  as  eight  o'clock,"  it  says,  "  the  spacious 
drill-room  at  the  armory  was  crowded  by  the  members, 
anxious  to  be  the  first  to  answer  to  the  call  of  Secretary 
Stan  ton.  Shortly  after,  Colonel  Lefferts  arrived,  and  his 
appearance  was  hailed  with  every  manifestation  of  delight 
by  his  command. 

"  '  This  is  what  I  have  been  wishing  for.' 

"  <  Ain't  this  jolly  ?  ' 

"  {  But  how  can  you  leave  your  business  ?  '  inquired  one. 

"  '  This,  and  this  only,  is  my  business  now,'  was  the  re 
sponse. 

"  '  Never  was   there   so   much  enthusiasm  shown ;   the 


THE  BALTIMORE  CAMPAIGN.  237 

whole  of  the  men  seemed  to  hail  their  departure  from  the 
city  as  a  positive  pleasure.  Colonel  Lefferts  then  read  the 
despatches  from  Secretary  Stanton,  calling  for  more  troops, 
which  was  received  with  the  most  vociferous  cheering.  He 
then  made  a  short  and  spirited  address,  asking  the  men  if 
they  were  willing  to  answer  the  call.  A  most  unanimous 
'  Yes ! '  was  the  answer." 

Colonel  Lefferts  thereupon  hastily  drew  up  his  orders 
for  march,  and  issued  them  forthwith.  They  were  sub 
stantially  the  same  as  those  of  the  year  before,  and  read  as 
follows :  — 

HEAD-QUARTEKS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT  (NATIONAL  GUARD), 
NEW  YORK,  May  26, 1862. 

In  compliance  with  orders  from  his  Excellency  the  Governor  of  this 
State  to  proceed  to  Washington,  the  regiment  will  assemble  at  Head 
quarters  at  a  quarter  before  seven  o'clock,  p.  M.,  this  26th  instant,  in  full 
fatigue  dress,  with  knapsack,  haversack,  and  canteen,  overcoats  rolled 
and  strapped  upon  the  knapsack,  and  blankets  suspended  from  it.  Offi 
cers  will  sling  their  overcoats.  Regimental  line  will  be  formed  at  seven 
o'clock.  Each  man  will  provide  himself  with  one  day's  rations,  and 
carry  in  his  knapsack  suitable  underclothing,  an  extra  pair  of  boots 
(shoes  are  much  better),  knife,  fork,  spoon,  tin  plate,  and  cup,  an  extra 
pair  of  pants,  and  those  that  have  retained  their  "  Aspinwalls "  had 
better  take  them.  Each  officer,  will  be  allowed  a  small  trunk,  which 
must  be  distinctly  marked,  and  left  at  the  armory  before  six  o'clock, 
p.  M.  Recruits  who  may  not  have  procured  their  uniforms  will,  however, 
report  for  duty,  and  be  assigned  a  post  in  the  column.  Each  company 
will  be  allowed  to  take  one  servant,  who  must  have  a  pass  signed  by  the 
commandant  of  the  company. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Colonel. 

GEO.  W.  SMITH,  Acting  Adjutant. 

A  member,  taking  a  copy,  and  mounting  a  caisson,  read 
the  orders  aloud  to  his  comrades. 

Promptly  at  seven  o'clock  the  line  was  formed  in  La 
fayette  Place,  with  a  great  crowd  of  on-lookers.  "  Many  a 
fervent  '  God  bless  you  ! '  was  uttered,"  says  a  journal  al 
ready  quoted,*"  and  many  a  bright  eye  was  dimmed  at 
parting,  The  march  down  Broadway  was  a  complete 


238  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

triumph ;  the  sidewalks  were  crowded  with  an  enthu 
siastic  people,  who  cheered  themselves  hoarse  in  honor 
of  the  brave  fellows  as  they  passed.  Flags  were  stream 
ing  from  the  principal  buildings,  fireworks  were  let  off, 
and  each  man  endeavored  to  surpass  his  neighbor  in  giving 
vent  to  his  delight  at  seeing  the  Seventh  once  more  on  its 
way  to  the  war." 

About  9,  P.  M.,  of  May  26th,  the  regiment  embarked  on 
the  steamer  Red  Jacket,  at  Pier  No.  2,  North  River,  and, 
just  before  ten,  moved  out,  with  the  band  playing  a  lively 
air,  and  the  men  giving  responsive  cheers  to  the  shouts  of 
the  great  multitude  gathered  at  the  wharf  and  on  the 
wharves  adjoining.  Elizabethport  was  reached  after  eleven, 
and  at  midnight  the  train  started  for  Baltimore.  On  ar 
riving  at  Elizabeth,  the  Seventh  found  the  depot  tilled  with 
people  waiting  to  cheer  them  as  the  year  before,  and  the 
"  Star-Spangled  Banner  "  was  sung  enthusiastically  when 
the  train  moved  on.  Harrisburg  was  reached  by  noon  of 
the  next  day.  At  Easton,  Reading,  and  other  places  along 
the  route,  the  citizens  were  assembled  to  cheer  the  Seventh, 
while  ladies  threw  bouquets  into  the  cars.  At  half  past  five, 
p.  M.,  Baltimore  was  reached  ;  and  at  6,  P.  M.,  Colonel  Lef- 
ferts  marched  the  regiment  across  the  city,  the  band  playing, 
to  take  the  train  for  Washington.  Just  as  it  was  about  to 
enter  the  cars,  an  order  came  to  Colonel  Lefferts  directing 
him  to  report  to  General  Dix,  commanding  the  Middle  De 
partment,  with  head-quarters  at  Baltimore.  This  order  was 
received  with  universal  vexation  and  chagrin  ;  but  a  rumor 
prevailing  that  it  really  signified  the  transfer  of  the  regi 
ment  directly  to  Banks's  corps  at  Harper's  Ferry,  it  was 
discussed  with  more  complacency.  Arms  were  stacked 
and  knapsacks  piled  in  the  depot,  which  was  set  apart  for 
the  bivouac.  But  leave  being  given  to  seek  the  comforts 
of  the  Eutaw  and  other  hotels,  it  was  speedily  made  use  of 
by  most  of  the  regiment. 


THE   BALTIMORE   CAMPAIGN.  239 

Baltimore  was,  however,  destined  to  be  the  scene  of  the 
Seventh  Regiment's  second  campaign.  For,  as  it  turned 
out,  Jackson,  having  accomplished  his  object  in  thwarting 
the  projected  junction  of  McDowell  with  McClellan,  made 
good  his  retreat  up  the  valley  to  his  mountain  eyrie,  and 
soon  after,  at  the  summons  of  Lee,  crossed  over  to  the  left 
flank  of  the  main  Confederate  Army.  It  being,  therefore, 
no  longer  now  a  question  of  the  safety  of  Washington,  but 
of  the  pursuit  of  Jackson,  the  Seventh  was  retained  at  Bal 
timore,  there  to  await  the  shifting  fortunes  of  the  grand 
Virginia  campaign,  which  on  any  day  might  demand  its 
presence  at  the  front.  Thither,  also,  other  New  York  mili 
tia  regiments  duly  followed. 

General  Dix  designated  Stewart's  Grove,  in  the  outskirts 
of  the  city,  two  miles  from  the  Eutaw  House,  as  the  camp 
ground.  The  camp  was  laid  out  on  a  plateau,  amongst 
the  grand  old  oaks  crowning  Stewart's  Hill,  adjacent  to  the 
family  mansion  of  the  Confederate  General  Stewart.  It 
commanded  a  fine  view  of  Baltimore,  with  its  harbor  and 
the  bay  beyond,  and  of  the  beautiful  woods  and  fields  around 
the  city.  Its  only  lack  was  a  good  parade-ground.  At  ten 
o'clock  on  the  morning  of  May  28th,  the  regiment  marched 
to  Stewart's  Hill,  and  there  pitched  its  tents.  A  long 
storm  inaugurated  this  camp,  like  Camp  Cameron,  and  sea 
soned  the  troops  to  rough  service  at  the  start.  In  a  few 
days  the  tents  were  floored,  the  streets  cleared,  the  cook 
houses  put  in  order,  and  a  beautiful  camp  was  established. 
Campaign  devices,  taught  by  experience,  aided  by  open 
purses,  made  the  quarters  comfortable.  A  published  letter 
of  May  30th  says  :  "  The  Seventh  is  now  comfortably  quar 
tered  on  Stewart's  Hill,  new  tents  having  been  furnished 
them,  and  all  floored  over.  To-day  quite  a  number  were 
allowed  the  freedom  of  the  city,  and  they  paid  visits  about 
town,  viewing  the  monuments  and  public  buildings.  The 


240  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

men  are  very  anxious  to  be  in  active  service,  and  it  is  un 
derstood  that  Colonel  Lefferts  made  application  to  the  Sec 
retary  of  War  to  allow  his  regiment  to  join  General  Banks's 
column,  as  it  is  momentarily  anticipated  that  an  attack  will 
be  made  at  Williamsport.  Every  man  in  the  regiment 
seems  anxious  to  have  the  opportunity  for  active  field  ser 
vice.  They  are  exceedingly  opposed  to  being  kept  at  Balti 
more.  The  Eighth  Regiment  is  expected  here  this  even 
ing.  They  will,  no  doubt,  meet  with  a  similar  reception  to 
the  New  York  Seventh." 

As  soon  as  the  camp  was  established,  Colonel  Lefferts 
issued  the  following 

STANDING  ORDER,  No.  1. 

The  Chain  of  Sentinels  shall  be  the  limit  of  the  Camp. 

No  member  of  the  regiment  shall  pass  outside  of  the  limits  of  the 
Camp  without  permission  of  his  Commanding  Officer,  and  then  only  by 
way  of  the  guard-tent,  where  he  shall  report  himself  going  and  re 
turning. 

The  Officer  of  the  Guard  shall  keep  a  list  of  men  so  leaving  the  camp, 
with  the  time  of  their  reporting  to  him,  and  submit  the  same  with  his 
Guard  Report  in  the  morning. 

Every  man  must  be  present  at  morning  and  afternoon  drill,  unless  ho 
is  on  the  sick-report,  or  has  a  written  excuse  from  his  commandant. 

"  Reveille  "  at  sunrise. 

Immediately  after  the  roll-call  the  tents  will  be  put  in  order  and  the 
streets  cleaned,  and  all  rubbish  must  be  removed  from  the  Camp-Ground. 

Half  an  hour  after  "  Reveille,"  the  signal  for  Recruit  Squad  Drill,  which 
will  last  one  hour. 

"  Peas  on  the  Trencher  "  at  seven  o'clock,  A.  M. 

Call  for  details  for  guard  duty  at  twenty  minutes  before  eight,  A.  M. 

Call  for  details  to  repair  the  Regimental  Parade  at  ten  minutes  before 
eight,  A.  M. 

Troop  for  guard-mounting  at  eight,  A.  M.  Immediately  after  which, 
the  first  sergeant,  with  a  detail  of  men,  will  draw  their  rations  for  the 
day. 

Surgeon's  call  at  nine  o'clock,  A.  M  ,  when  the  sick  in  camp  of  each 
company  will  be  marched  to  the  dispensary,  in  charge  of  a  non-commi«- 
sioned  officer. 


THE   BALTIMORE   CAMPAIGN.  241 

The  assembly  for  company  drill  at  half  past  nine,  A.  M.,  unless  other 
wise  ordered. 

"  Roast  Beef"  will  be  sounded  for  dinner  at  twelve,  M. 

First  sergeant's  call,  quarter  after  five  o'clock,  p.  M. 

To  the  color  to  form  by  Battalion,  at  half  past  five,  P.  M. 

"  Evening  gun  "  to  be  fired  at  sunset. 

Tattoo  at  ten,  p.  M.     Taps  at  half  past  ten,  p.  M. 

There  will  be  roll-calls  on  the  company  parades,  at  Reveille,  and  even 
ing  parades,  superintended  by  a  commissioned  officer. 

The  recruits  will  be  exercised  at  least  twice  a  day  by  an  officer  or  a 
non-commissioned  officer. 

All  drills  will  be  attended  in  full  fatigue  dress,  officers  and  non-com 
missioned  officers  omitting  the  sash. 

When  off  duty  in  the  public  streets,  all  officers,  non-commissioned 
officers,  and  privates  will  wear  the  waist-belt  alone  and  the  coat  but 
toned.  On  dress  parades,' the  officers  and  sergeants  will  wear  the  sash. 

The  cap-cover  will  be  worn  in  wet  weather  only. 

Pistols  will  not  be  carried  by  officers  or  men,  except  in  actual  con 
flict,  or  when  on  the  march. 

All  fancy  articles  of  dress  are  prohibited  at  all  times. 

From  this  order  the  daily  routine  of  the  camp  may  be 
gathered.  It  did  not  differ  essentially  from  that  of  Camp 
Cameron.  There  were  recruit  drills  before  breakfast  and 
at  various  times  through  the  day  ;  company  drills  in  the 
morning  ;  battalion  drills  in  the  afternoon  ;  dress  parade  in 
the  evening.  The  severe  rains  of  the  first  ten  days  of  carnp- 
life  made  its  duties  very  disagreeable  ;  and  among  the  extra 
nuisances,  it  would  appear,  were  the  musical  performances 
of  two  young  buglers,  who  sounded  all  day  long  the  calls 
of  a  battery  of  the  Third  Artillery,  encamped  near  by. 

Hardly  had  the  regiment  gone  into  camp  before  daily 
details  were  made,  by  orders  from  head-quarters,  for  escort- 
duty  at  the  funerals  of  soldiers  who  had  died  at  the  United 
States  Hospital  in  Camden.  On  May  29th  an  escort  of  a 
corporal  and  eight  privates  of  the  Seventh  Company  at 
tended  the  funerals  of  Privates  A.  C.  Keym,  Eleventh  Maine 
Volunteers,  D.  Crawford,  Seventy-Second  New  York  Volun 
teers,  and  D.  K.  Sturgis,  Eighty-Fifth  Pennsylvania  Volun- 

16 


242  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

teers  ;  on  May  31st  a  similar  escort  of  the  Eighth  Company, 
those  of  Privates  H.  Delgart,  One  Hundred  and  Fourth 
Pennsylvania  Volunteers,  and  J.  Galligan,  One  Hundred 
and  Fourth  New  York  Volunteers ;  on  June  2d  an  escort 
of  a  sergeant  and  fourteen  privates  of  the  Ninth  Company 
attended  the  funerals  of  Sergeant  A.  W.  Gains,  Seventy- 
Seventh  New  York  Volunteers,  and  Private  Wesley  Kobin- 
son,  Sixth  New  Jersey  Volunteers  ;  on  June  3d  an  escort  of 
a  corporal  and  eight  privates  of  the  Third  Company,  those 
of  James  Atchinson,  Eleventh  Maine  Volunteers,  David 
Vail,  Sixth  New  Jersey  Volunteers,  and  V.  Sfefferman, 
Purnell  Legion ;  on  June  4th  a  similar  escort  of  the  Sec 
ond  Company,  that  of  Private  Thomas  Leland,  Eleventh 
Maine  Volunteers  ;  on  June  13th,  a  similar  escort,  that  of 
Private  Hartz,  Eighty-Fifth  Pennsylvania  Volunteers. 

On  the  30th  of  May  the  following  order  was  received 
from  headquarters :  — 

SPECIAL  ORDERS,  No.  143. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  MIDDLE  DEPARTMENT, 
BALTIMORE,  May  30,  1862. 

II.  The  commanding  officer  of  the  Seventh  New  York  State  Militia 
will  detail  from  his  command  one  company  to  act  as  guard  at  tho  Mount, 
Clare  Depot,  for  the  work-shops,  buildings,  and  public  property,  relieving 
the  detail  from  the  Third  New  York  Volunteers  now  there. 

The  detail  so  made  will  report  at  once  to  the  agent  of  the  B.  and  O. 
R.  R ,  at  the  depot. 

By  command  of  Major-General  Dix, 

D.  T.  VAN  BUREN,  Assistant  Adjutant-General. 

Each  company  by  turns  was  detailed  for  this  duty, 
marched  to  tho  station,  and  took  up  its  quarters  in  some 
passenger  cars,  a  "paymaster's  car"  being  the  head-quar 
ters,  and  another  car  the  kitchen.  The  post  had  been  cre 
ated  by  General  Dix  in  consequence  of  a  serious  political 
riot  which  had  happened  there,  endangering  the  use  of  the 
road  for  government  purposes.  Mount  Clare  station  con 
tained  the  machine-shops,  car-works,  and  one  of  the  chief 


THE   BALTIMORE    CAMPAIGN.  243 

freight  depots  of  the  railroad,  —  it  occupying  ten  acres  and 
employing  a  thousand  men.  The  duty  here  was  light.  The 
Second  Company  was  first  detailed,  and,  on  the  day  after  its 
arrival,  General  Dix  visited  the  station,  and  expressed  his 
satisfaction  at  the  appearance  of  the  guard.  The  follow 
ing  afternoon,  being  Sunday,  Chaplain  Weston,  who  had 
preached  a  sermon  in  the  morning  at  Camp  Dix,  preached 
another  at  Mount  Clare.  On  the  2d  day  of  June  this  detail 
was  relieved  by  the  Eighth  Company,  Captain  Shumway, 
which  in  turn,  on  the  5th  of  June,  was  relieved t by  thirty- 
five  men  of  the  Ninth  Company,  Captain  Easton. 

General  Dix  having  received  orders,  on  the  1st  of  June, 
to  repair  to  Fort  Monroe  and  assume  command  at  that 
point,  Major-General  Wool  was  assigned  to  command  the 
Middle  Department;  but,  during  the  interim  before  his 
arrival,  the  command  devolved  upon  Brigadier-General 
W.  R.  Montgomery,  United  States  Volunteers.  In  his  gen 
eral  order  announcing  his  departure,  General  Dix  said  :  "It 
is  a  source  of  deep  regret  to  the  Major-General  commanding 
that  he  is  compelled  to  leave  without  being  able  to  review 
the  regiments  of  New  York  Militia,  —  the  Seventh,  Eighth, 
Thirteenth,  Twenty-Second,  Thirty-Seventh,  and  Forty-Sev 
enth, —  which,  under  a  second  appeal  from  the  Chief  Magis 
trate  of  the  Union,  have  laid  aside  their  various  occupa 
tions  on  the  briefest  notice,  at  great  personal  sacrifice,  and, 
hurrying  to  the  field,  are  now  occupying  positions  in  and 
around  Baltimore.  In  their  patriotism  and  their  devotion 
to  the  government  of  their  country,  the  Union  feeling  of 
the  city  will  meet  with  a  cordial  sympathy.  It  is  a  great 
alleviation  of  the  regret  with  which  the  Major-General 
commanding  parts  with  them,  that  he  is  soon  to  be  suc 
ceeded  by  a  distinguished  general  officer  of  the  Regular 
Army,  from  their  own  State." 

The  camp  of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  previously  known 
as  Camp  Dix,  was  commonly  called  thereafter  Camp  Wool, 


244  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

in  honor  of  the  new  commander.  On  the  5th  of  June,  in 
compliance  with  General  Montgomery's  order  of  the  pre 
vious  day,  a  daily  guard  of  four  men  was  detailed  for  the 
General  Hospital  at  Camp  Andrew,  reporting  to  Brigade- 
Surgeon  Ira  Russell,  in  charge  of  the  hospital. 

In  marching  from  New  York,  at  a  few  hours'  notice,  many 
members  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  had  made  considerable 
sacrifices.  Such  as  could  go  to  the  war  for  three  years 
had  already  gone,  and  were  scattered  by  scores  through 
the  armie§  of  the  Union.  Those  now  at  Baltimore,  business 
needs,  or  family  duties,  or  ill  health,  or  similar  cause,  had 
prevented  from  absenting  themselves  through  so  long  a  war. 
They  were  all  prepared  for  short  campaigns,  but  even  these 
were  made  at  a  sacrifice.  If  it  be  true  that  the  wealth  and 
pecuniary  independence  of  a  few  left  them  free  to  act,  the 
responsible  business  positions  of  most  others  were  sources 
of  anxiety.  Some  members  gave  up  these  positions  ;  others 
were  peremptorily  recalled  by  employers  who  could  not  or 
would  not  allow  them  to  finish  the  campaign,  except  on  pen 
alty  of  being  thrown  out  of  their  places.  To  those  salaried 
men  whose  families  had  been  accustomed  to  good  social 
positions,  the  withdrawal  from  business  and  the  stopping  of 
their  incomes  were  particularly  trying.  To  consider  and 
act  upon  all  these  cases,  giving  temporary  or  permanent 
furloughs  as  circumstances  might  demand,  was  the  hard 
task  imposed  upon  Colonel  Lefferts,  who  was  always  ex 
tremely  anxious  that  the  effective  strength  of  the  regiment 
should  be  as  great  as  possible. 

There  were  members  of  the  regiment  also  who  lagged  be 
hind,  and  urgent  means  were  employed  to  bring  these  for 
ward.  Still,  despite  these  causes,  and  despite  the  numbers 
now  in  the  volunteer  army  and  the  suddenness  of  the  pres 
ent  call,  the  regiment,  as  we  have  seen,  marched  six  hun 
dred  strong  ;  it  was  joined  at  Camp  Dix  by  others  who  were 
detained  for  a  day  or  two  in  New  York.  On  the  4th  of  June, 


THE   BALTIMORE   CAMPAIGN.  245 

Adjutant  George  William  Smith  made  the  following  report 
of  the  strength  of  the  regiment :  — 

Abstract  of  Consolidated  Morning  Report,  June  4,  1862. 

COMPANY.  PRESKST  AND  ABSENT.  ABSENT. 

A  (First)         .         .         .  .55 7 

B  (Second)          ...         91  ....         5 

C  (Third)        .         .         .  .75 6 

1)  (Fourth)           ...         66  ....         1 

E  (Fifth)         .       ..         .  .     51  .         .         •         .         .2 

F  (Sixth)    ....         85  ....         5 

0  (Seventh)   .         .         .  .     80  .         .         .         .         .     5 
H  (Eighth)          ...         78  ....         4 

1  (Ninth)       .         .         .  .75 2 

K  (Tenth)  ....         57  ..  .6 

713  43 

Field  and  staff,  and  non-com 
missioned  do.        .         .         .     11 
Band  and  field  music  .         .          54 

Total,  present  and  absent  .  778 
Deduct  ....  43 
Total,  present  .  .  .735 

To  keep  up  this  effective  strength,  and  to  add  to  it  by 
bringing  forward  every  officer  and  man  delaying  without 
sufficient  reason  in  New  York,  was  now  the  task.  Recruits 
offered  themselves,  ten  from  Schenectady,  others  from  Phila 
delphia  and.  elsewhere.  These  were  declined,  but  it  was 
suggested  to  the  Veteran  Reserve  Corps  that  something 
might  be  done  in  recruiting  in  New  York.  The  following 
letter  was  received  in  reply  from  Colonel  Schultz :  — 

NEW  YORK,  June  4,  1862. 
COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS. 

MY  DEAR  SIR,  —  Yesterday  I  received  your  telegram,  and  at  once 
wrote  a  note  to  Colonels  Stevens  and  Vermilye  to  meet  me  in  the  even 
ing  ;  also,  Lieutenant-Colonel  Pond.  All  concurred  in  saying  that  your 
wishes  should  be  attended  to  at  once. 

We  all  thought  best  not  to  say,  or  allow  any  one  else  to  say,  anything 
about  recruiting  in  the  papers.  This  course  may  cause  a  little  delay  in 


246  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

spreading  the  information  that,  under  certain  limitations,  you  are  willing 
to  receive  recruits,  but  we  thought  for  the  present  this  will  be  the  best 
course.  It  will  give  us  an  opportunity  to  select  better  men. 

The  conditions  which  will  be  imposed  are  :  — 

First.  The  recruit  to  pass,  as  to  character,  etc.,  the  officer  in  at 
tendance. 

Second.     He  must  serve  for  seven  years  in  the  regiment,  if  elected. 

Third.     To  be  assigned  to  such  company  as  you  may  direct. 

Fourth.     To  take  his  chances  of  an  election  on  his  return. 

Fifth.     To  equip  himself  at  his  own  expense,  except  musket. 

You  shall  hear  further  from  us  as  we  progress. 
Very  truly, 

J.  S.  SCHULTZ. 

The  duties  of  Camp  Wool  were  soon  ended.  On  the  5th 
of  June,  Colonel  Lefferts  received  an  order  from  General 
Montgomery  to  have  his  command  in  readiness  to  move  to 
Fort  Federal  Hill  by  eleven  o'clock,  A.  M.,  of  the  6th  of 
June,  to  relieve  the  Third  New  York  Volunteers  at  that 
place.  This  order  was  disagreeable  to  the  regiment,  not 
merely  because  the  camp  had  now  been  put  into  admirable 
condition,  and  in  the  "  perfect  days"  of  June  it  was  hard  to 
think  of  exchanging  tents  for  barracks,  but  also  because  it 
was  feared  that  this  transfer  portended  a  long  stay  at  Balti 
more,  and  a  farewell  to  hopes  of  active  participation  in  the 
stirring  events  going  on  at  the  front.  The  importance  of 
the  new  post  was  the  main  consolation. 


FORT   FEDERAL   HILL. 


247 


CHAPTER  XV. 


FORT    FEDERAL   HILL. 

EDERAL  HILL,  rising  bluff 
and  imposing  from  the  Pa- 
tapsco,  is  the  strategic  key 
to  the  city  of  Baltimore, 
with  the  river  and  harbor,  as 
well  as  to  Fort  McHenry  and 
the  other  defensive  works, 
and  to  all  the  subjacent 
country.  Seized  and  forti 
fied  by  General  Butler,  in 
May,  1861,  its  possession  be 
came  synonymous  with  the 
possession  of  Baltimore.  But 
the  great  earthwork  reach 
ing  nearly  to  the  river  bank, 
called  Fort  Federal  Hill,  was 
thrown  up  in  the  autumn 
of  1861,  by  Duryee's  Zouaves  (Fifth  New  York  Volun 
teers),  commanded  by  Colonel  Duryee,  formerly  Colo 
nel  of  the  Seventh  Regiment.  In  March,  1862,  this  regi 
ment  was  succeeded  by  the  Third  New  York  Volunteers, 
Colonel  Alvord.  In  now  relieving  the  latter,  the  Sev 
enth  took  pride  in  knowing  that  at  least  it  had  added 
an  admirable  regiment  to  the  Virginia  battle-fields.  The 
high  reputation  of  these  two  preceding  garrisons  of  Fed- 


248  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

eral  Hill  sufficiently  guaranteed  the  importance  of  the 
post. 

The  fort  itself  was  described  at  this  time  as  "  an  immense 
square  fortification,  with  three  large  bastions,  the  guns  of 
which  command  the  river  above  and  below,  and  every  part 
of  the  city  beyond.  A  lunette  commands  the  approaches 
from  the  land  side.  The  fort  is  entered  upon  its  southwest 
face  by  a  bridge  and  a  huge  gate,  and  the  entrance  is  pro 
tected  by  a  ditch.  Large  two-story  buildings  occupy  three 
sides  of  the  quadrilateral,  within  the  high  embankments, 
and  upon  the  fourth  are  situated  a  neat  cottage,  commonly 
called  the  colonel's  quarters,  a  guard-house,  and  an  unim- 
posing  building  which  affords  ample  accommodation  for  the 
commissary  and  quartermaster's  departments.  Three  large 
magazines,  conveniently  situated,  and  an  imposing  signal  sta 
tion,  complete  the  necessary  structures  within  the  fort.  The 
buildings  enclose  a  large  parade-ground,  sufficient  in  extent 
for  ordinary  military  purposes ;  and  the  square  is  ornamented 
with  native  trees,  which  please  the  eye  and  afford  an  agree 
able  shade.  The  barracks  are  of  wood,  two  stories  high,  with 
double  verandas,  supported  by  slight  pillars,  and  facing 
inwards  towards  the  square.  One  building  is  occupied 
by  the  officers,  and  the  others  are  divided  into  rooms  ninety 
feet  in  length,  each  division  furnishing  ample  accommodar- 
tion  for  a  company  of  a  hundred  men.  Three  tiers  of  bunks 
occupy  each  side  of  the  company  quarters,  and  are  arranged 
in  the  most  convenient  and  approved  manner.  Company 
kitchens  also  occupy  the  ends  of  the  large  centre  building, 
and  there  are  rooms  in  the  same  building  for  the  band  and 
the  sutler.  With  its  ample  supply  of  excellent  water,  com 
plete  drainage,  airy  situation,  and  comfortable  quarters, 
Fort  Federal  Hill  is  one  of  the  most  healthy  and  agreeable 
military  posts  in  the  country." 

At  this  time  the  armament  and  ammunition  of  the  fort 
were  as  follows :  — 


FORT   FEDERAL   HILL.  249 

A  rmament. 

Six  8-inch  columbiads. 
Two  10-inch  mortars. 
Two  8-inch  S.  C.  howitzers 
Twenty-three  32-pounder  guns. 
Five  24-pounder  howitzers  (Flank  Defence). 
One  6-pounder  gun  (brass). 

Ammunition. 

1,200  8-inch  Columbiad  shell;  100  8-inch  Columbiad  grape;  1,100 
10-inch  mortar  shell;  400  32-pounder  shell;  150  32-pounder  canister; 
150-  32-pounder  grape;  920  32-pounder  solid  shot;  126  24-pounder 
howitzer,  F.  D.,  shell  (fixed)  ;  64  24-pounder  howitzer,  F.  D.,  grape 
(fixed)  ;  60  24-pounder  howitzer,  F.  D.,  canister  (fixed)  ;  28  6-pounder 
gun  (brass),  solid  shot  (fixed)  ;  42  6-pounder  gun  (brass),  canister, 
(fixed);  1,000  hand  grenades,  1,  3,  and  5  pounds;  9,200  pounds  can 
non  powder ;  fuses,  cartridge-bags,  and  implements,  complete. 

On  the  afternoon  of  the  6th  of  June,  the  Third  Regiment 
marched  out  and  the  Seventh  marched  in ;  after  a  thor 
ough  scrubbing,  the  quarters  were  occupied.  Three  days 
later,  Major-General  John  E.  Wool  assumed  command  of 
the  Middle  Department,  with  head-quarters  at  Baltimore. 
On  the  19th  the  regiment  was  mustered  into  the  United 
States  service  for  three  months,  to  date  from  May  25th,  by 
Colonel  B.  L.  Beall,  United  States  xlrmy.  That  officer,  on 
the  21st,  wrote  to  Colonel  Lefferts,  requesting  him  to  direct 
that  four  muster-rolls  be  made  out  instead  of  three  ;  the 
fourth,  he  added,  "  I  am  directed  to  send  to  the  Commission 
of  the  Land  Office  in  Washington  City,  as  it  is  contem 
plated  to  grant  land  to  the  volunteers."  This  record  may 
be  worthy  of  preservation,  to  note  the  furthest  point  to  which 
the  regiment  ever  went  on  the  road  to  land  bounties. 

I  have  already  said  that  the  regiment  took  the  oath  of 
service  for  three  months,  but  the  incidents  connected  with 
this  act  form  a  story  by  themselves.  It  will  be  remembered 
that,  on  leaving  New  York,  it  was  distinctly  stated  by  the 
authorities  that  the  regiment  should  be  mustered  in  for  not 
less  than  thirty  days  nor  more  than  ninety  days,  and  that 


250  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

the  muster-in  for  more  than  thirty  days  should  be  at  its  own 
option.  Soon  after  its  departure,  therefore,  the  Adjutants 
General  of  New  York  addressed  the  War  Office,  saying : 
"  The  Seventh  Regiment,  National  Guard,  left  for  Wash 
ington  last  night.  They  left  without  being  mustered  into 
the  United  States  service,  as  the  demand  seemed  to  bo 
pressing,  and  the  influence  of  their  example  on  other  regi 
ments  and  volunteers  was  most  beneficial.  The  period  for 
which  they  are  to  serve  is  left  to  be  arranged  after  their 
arrival  in  Washington  ;  but  they  left  with  the  understand 
ing  that  it  should  not  be  less  than  thirty  days,  nor  more 
than  three  months,  nor  are  they  to  be  under  any  obligation 
to  remain  longer  than  the  former  period,  unless  they  consent 
to  after  their  arrival" 

On  receiving  this  letter,  Secretary  Stanton  sent  to  Colonel 
Lefferts,  then  at  Baltimore,  a  request  that  he  would  come 
on  at  once  to  Washington,  to  settle  with  him  personally  the 
term  of  service.  The  Colonel,  on  arriving  at  the  Wai- 
Office,  found  that  the  Secretary  was  very  desirous  to  have 
the  regiment  mustered  for  three  months. 

"  Well,  Mr.  Stanton,"  said  Colonel  Lefferts,  "  the  term 
of  service  we  s$t  out  for  was  thirty  days,  and  it  is  fair  that 
the  regiment  itself  should  be  first  consulted,  if  it  is  to  be 
sworn  in  for  ninety." 

"  Do  just  as  you  please  about  it,"  answered  Mr.  Stanton, 
shortly,  and  with  a  displeased  air. 

"  Mr.  Secretary,  don't  misunderstand  me,"  replied  the 
Colonel.  "I  am  perfectly  willing,  as  you  have  seen,  to 
muster  in  for  three  months,  but  must  keep  faith  with  my 
men.  I  think  I  can  set  your  mind  at  rest,  that,  after  a  fail- 
statement  of  the  facts,  they  will  at  once  respond  to  your 
wishes." 

On  that,  Mr.  Stanton  became  calmer,  and  rejoined  :  "It 
is  very  important,  Colonel,  that  you  should  muster  in  for 
three  months ;  the  other  regiments  will  be  sure  to  follow 


FORT    FEDERAL   HILL.  251 

your  example.  However,  probably  your  term  of  service 
will  not  last  over  thirty,  days,  for  in  ten  days  we  expect 
McClellan  will  be  in  Richmond." 

On  his  return  to  Baltimore,  Colonel  Lefferts  called  the 
regiment  together  and  told  the  men  what  had  taken  place, 
what  the  government  desired,  and  how  the  present  action 
of  the  regiment  would  go  into  its  history,  not  as  compul 
sory,  but  as  voluntary,  and  undertaken  in  behalf  of  the 
country.  What  the  response  was  we  have  already  seen. 
But  even  to  the  present  day,  some  of  those  who  were  at 
Baltimore  in  1862  are  wont,  on  meeting  the  Colonel,  to 
joke  him  on  the  affair,  laughingly  accusing  him  of  "  coax 
ing  sixty  days'  extra"  service  out  of  the  regiment. 

I  now  append  the  muster-roll  of  the  Baltimore  campaign 
of  1862.  It  should  be  noted  that  the  members  marked 
"  not  mustered  "  in  some  cases  joined  the  regiment  after 
the  25th  day  of  May,  and  in  some  cases  were  merely  ab 
sent  on  leave  or  on  detailed  service  on  that  day. 


MUSTER-IN    ROLL 

OF    THE 

SEVENTH   REGIMENT    (NATIONAL    GUARD)    N.   Y.   S.   M. 

Called  into  the  service  of  the  United  States,  by  the  President  thereof,  from 
the  twenty-fifth  day  of  May,  1862,  for  the  terra  of  three  months,  unless  sooner 
discharged.  Mustered  in  at  Baltimore,  on  the  twenty-fifth  day  of  May,  1862, 
by  Colonel  B.  L.  Beall,  U.  S,  A. 

Colonel. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS. 

Lieutenant-  Colonel.  Major. 

JAMES  PKICE.  BENJAMIN  M.  NEVERS. 

Staff. 

Geo.  Wm.  Smith,  Adjutant.  Rev.  S.  H.  Weston,  Chaplain. 

Stephen  Rogers,  Surgeon.  Chas.  T.  McClenachan,  Quartermaster. 

James  H.  Rogers,  Assistant  Surgeon.      Wm.  H.  Allen,  Paymaster. 
Geo.  W.  Brainerd,  Commissary. 


252  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Non-commissioned  Staff. 

Robert  C.  Rathbone,  S&rgt.  Major.  Wm.  L.  Watkins,  R.  G.  G. 

L.  L.  L.  Clearman,  Quartermaster  Sergt.     Marshall  Lefferts,  Jr.,  L.  G.  G. 
Simon  W.  Scott,  Color  Sergeant.  Frederick  S.  Morrison,  Com  Sergt. 

Wm.  H.  Gibson,      "          "  James  W.  Wilson,  Hospital  Steward. 

Charles  H.  Winans,  Orderly. 

Band. 

David  Graham,  Prin.  Mus. 

Claudio  Graffulla,  Leader.  Lindner,  Charles,  2d  C.  Mus. 

Bader,  Frederick,  1st  C.  Mus.  Mosline,  Fredoline,  "  " 

Bader,  Henry,  "         "  Menti,  Frederick,   3d  C.  Mus. 

Corley,  Thomas,        "         "  Menti,  Adolph, 

Diller,  Francis,          "         "  Macchi,  Ulias,            "  " 

Duhy,  Oliver,            "         "  Nichols,  Adolph,       "  " 

Fritz,  Edward,           "         "  Quintana,  Lucien,     "  " 

Wernig,  Charles,       "         "  Rogassi,  Vito, 

Gessner,  Joseph,    2d  C.  Mus.  Stobe,  Henry,            "  " 

Fielding,  John,          "         "  Wernig,  John,           "  " 

Kendall,  George,       "        "  Weckert,  Adolphe,   "  " 

Kappa,  Carlo,  Anderson,  John,        "  " 

Kossack,  William,    "         "  Brettell,  Edward,       "  " 

Eberhard,  Nicholas,  "        "  O'Reilly,  Michael,    " 


FIRST   COMPANY  (A). 
Captain,  CHRISTIAN  H.  MEDAT. 
1st  Lieutenant,  William  H.  Hume. 
Sergeants.  Corporals. 

*Kitchen,  George  H.  (Orderly).  Bensel,  J.  Warner. 

*Murray,  James.  Bergmann,  August. 

Buchanan,  David.  Howe,  Charles  H. 

Clough,  Henry.  Hume,  George  W. 

Archer,  Anson  I. 

Privates. 

Akley,  John  M.  Belknap,  Charles. 

Ammerman,  Albert.  Borden,  Charles  A. 

Apelles,  Charles  H.  Bosworth,  Charles  P. 

Apelles,  Frederick.  Cooke,  George  T. 

Baker,  John  T.  Corsa,  William  H. 

Barr,  Samuel  C.  Crandall,  Joseph  W.  H. 

*  Those  marked  with  a  star  were  not  mustered  in. 


FORT    FEDERAL   HILL.  253 

Klliott,  Archibald.  Saunders,  George  F. 

Foulke,  William  H.  Scott,  David. 

Griffith,  William.  Seaman,  Charles  H. 

*Grout,  Thomas  J.  Sharp,  Robert. 

Hamilton,  Robert.  Sharp,  William  A. 

James,  Benjamin  A.  Spring,  Edward  A. 

Jaqnes,  Thomas.  Squire,  Thomas  P. 

Kingsland,  Daniel  C.  Stout,  Burke  C. 

Kurtz,  William.  *Stranch,  Oscar. 

Leach,  Henry  L.  Svvartz,  John  H. 

Manning,  William.  Thompson,  Allenby. 

McKaye,  James.  Thome,  William  I. 

Meday,  George  K.  *Trenor,  Thomas  F. 

Mums,  William  M.  Van  Ness,  George. 

Munger,  Calvin  A.  Villeplait,  Alfred  B. 

Nichols,  William  A.  Walker,  Nathan  D. 
Pearsall,  William,  Jr. 


SECOND   COMPANY  (B). 

Captain,  EMMONS  CLARK. 
1st  Lieutenant,  Peter  Palmer.         2d  Lieutenant,  George  M.  Smith. 

Sergeants.  Corporals. 

Allison,  Richard  (Orderly).  *Browcr,  Bloomfield. 

Ware,  Richard  F.  See,  William  B. 

Van  Norden,  Charles  S.  Mix,  Eugene. 

*Fonda,  Richard  D.  Gould,  Robert  S.,  Jr. 

*Quilliard,  Gulian  V. 

Drummers. 

Barker,  William.  Brown,  Charles. 
Privates. 

Agens,  Frederic  G.  *Brumley,  James  L. 

/Alden,  James  M.  Buchan,  Robert  C. 

/  Allison,  William  G.  *Burnet,  Gilbert,  Jr. 

Amerman,  Jacob  B.  *Burtis,  William  A.,  Jr. 

Appleby,  Charles.  Cahill,  Eugene  C. 

Bacon,  Benjamin.  *Chase,  Amos  M.,  Jr. 

Baker,  John  G.  Clark,  Edward  D. 

Bernard,  Walter.  Curtis,  Albert  A. 

Bostwick,  Charles  E.  Davis,  Alexander  M. 

Bird,  John  H.  Day,  Martin  N. 

*Bristow,  Henry.  Debenham,  George. 


254 


HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 


Dusenbcrry.  Edwin. 
Emerson,  Charles. 
Estwick,  William. 
Evans,  Lemuel  E. 
Farnham,  William  T. 
Findlay,  Andrew,  Jr. 
Fishblatt,  Solomon  H. 
Gregory,  Frank. 
Hill,  Charles  S. 
Haddock,  Washington  M. 
Hadley,  Charles  L. 
*Harter,  Frederic  A. 
Hatfield,  Abraham,  Jr 
Jones,  Matthias  L. 
Keep,  Frederic  E. 
*Larie,  R.  Henry. 
Lamibeer,  William,  Jr. 
Leonard,  Robert  W. 
Manuel,  Richard. 
Marsh,  Joseph  A. 
Mather,  Thomas  D. 
MoKinley,  Robert. 
Miller,  James  W. 
Mitchell,  William  A. 
Moffatt,  Bruce. 
Montayne,  William  H. 
Peixotto,  Moses  L.  M. 
Porter,  Joseph  T. 


Postlcy,  De  Van. 

Randal,  James  B. 

Ray,  Daniel  G. 

Robinson,  Daniel. 

Roome,  James  W. 

Salisbury,  Richard  L. 

Simpson,  Irwin. 

Smith,  Daniel  A. 

Smith,  James  A. 

Steele,  Henry  S. 

Street,  George  W. 

Struthers,  Stephen  R. 

Sturges,  Edward. 

Taylor,  Archibald. 
X*Taylor,  John  H. 
^Terret,  Charles  A. 

Trimble,,  Samuel. 

Vanderbilt,  Isaac  S. 

Van  Duyer,  William. 

*Walsh,  William  W. 

Ward,  Daniel  T. 

Ward,  Egbert. 

Webster,  Edward  B. 

Whitfield,  Edward  A. 

Williams,  Edgar. 

Williams,  Roswell  C. 

Young,  Albert  M. 


THIRD   COMPANY  (C). 

Captain,  GEORGE  T.  HAWS. 

1st  Lieutenant,  John  W.  Murray.     2d  Lieutenant,  Richard  L.  Leggett. 


Corporals. 
Gulager,  Philip  D. 
Reeve,  Isaac  T. 
Burgoyne,  Theodore. 
Warren,  Joseph  C. 


Sergeants. 

Pollard,  Don  Alonzo  (Orderly). 
Dore,  Jose. 
Smith,  Eugene  B. 
Burdett,  Jacob,  Jr. 
Collins,  George  S. 

Drummers. 
Barry,  William.  Connor,  Henry. 

Privates. 

Allen,  William  H.  Bonnett,  Daniel  B. 

Amory,  John  M.  Broderick,  Peter  M. 


FORT   FEDERAL   HILL. 


255 


*Broderick,  William  E. 
B rower,  John  L. 
*Bunce,  Theodore  D. 
Butler,  Edward  M. 
Clowes,  Theodore  F. 
Collins,  Thomas  G. 
Cook,  Vincent  L. 
Crary,  Charles  F. 
Edgar,  Leroy. 
Fuller,  Charles  W. 
Gunn,  Charles  L. 
Hart,  Robert  McD. 
Hyde,  Zebulon  E. 
Irving-,  Thomas  R. 
Jaffery,  Frank  C. 
James,  John  F. 
Kennedy,  Charles  S. 
Langdon,  Charles  E. 
Lobdell,  William  C. 
Mangam,  Franklin. 
Marsh,  Charles  M. 
Mattison,  Lucius  H. 
Morris,  William  E. 


Oakley,  Alfred. 

Oakley,  Nelson  H. 

Peck,  William  H.,  Jr. 

Platt,  William  C. 

Robbins,  Charles  F. 

Robinson,  William  G. 

*Salter,  George  F. 

*Samanos,  Stephen  A. 

Scrymser,  Walden  P. 

Sexton,  Samuel  J.  M. . 

Smith,  William  H. 

Spooner,  Henry  T. 

Stanford,  Joseph  M. 

Tracy,  William  W. 

Van  Cleet,  James  B. 

Van  Wyck,  William  E. 

Warren,  James  R. 

White,  Oliver  G. 

Wheaton,  George  H. 

*  Worth,  Thomas. 

Yard,  Wclsey  S. 

Carr,  William,  Hospital  Cook. 

Griffin,  Lemuel,  Hos.  Wardmaster. 


FOURTH   COMPANY  (D). 
Captain,  WILLIAM  H.  RIBLET. 


1st  Lieutenant,  Henry  Everdell. 


Sergeants. 

Fay,  Logan  (Orderly}. 
Earle,  Edward. 
Bunting,  Robert  S. 
Manning,  George  F. 
Smith,  Frank  K. 

Aikman,  Augustus  H. 
Balen,  Peter,  Jr. 
Beard,  Sylvester  C. 
*Bogert,  Arthur  W. 
Boylston,  Edgar  C. 
Breeden,  Abner  H. 
Breeden,  Charles  E. 


Corporals. 

Dougherty,  Horace  F. 
*Holly,  Henry  H. 
Little,  John  L. 
Kipp,  William  II. 


lyrivates. 


Cantrell,  Joseph. 
Cooper,  Joseph  G. 
Cooper,  Walter. 
Crandall,  Frank. 
Day,  Clarence  S. 
Dickerson,  George  A. 
Dolbear,  Thomas  H. 


256  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

Dubois,  John  S.  L.  Miller,  William  L. 

*Everdell,  Frank.  *Nichols,  William  L. 

*Ewcn,  Norman.  Nugent,  Henry. 

*Farnam,  James.  Osborne,  Elisha  K. 

Ferry,  Edwin  N.  Outcalt,  Cornelius  B. 

Foster,  Henry  J.  Pendleton,  Augustus  F. 

Gautier,  Samuel.  Scamoni,  Andrew. 

Gould,  Beekman.  •  Sharp,  Samuel  C. 

Halstcd,  Robert.  Steele,  John  H. 

Hays,  Benjamin  J.  Stephenson,  Joseph  B. 

Hay  ward,  Melville.  Srurtevant,  Chester. 

Holly,  John  E.  Taylor,  Joseph  D.,  Jr. 

Hodgkinson,  Thomas  H.  Terhune,  William  II. 

Huntington,  Cliarles  P.  Watkins,  Walter  A. 

Jarvis,  Edward  A.  Whitlock,  Andrew  M.,  Jr. 

Ketchum,  John  B.  Woodhouse,  Lorenzo  G. 

Lambert,  William.  Yetman,  James  E. 

Lawrence,  George  A.  Yetman,  John  V. 
Magnus,  Theodore. 


FIFTH   COMPANY  (E). 

Captain,  WM.  A.  SPEAIGHT. 
\st  Lieutenant,  W.  Seward,  Jr.         2d  Lieutenant,  Stephen  O.  Ryder. 

Sergeants.  Corporals. 

Hyde,  Albert  W.  (Orderly).  Barratt,  George  P. 

*Halstead,  Elbert  K.  Wyekoff,  A.  T. 

*Kingsland,  Edward  W.  M«pes,  Daniel  S. 

Braisted,  Peter  D.  Richards,  Daniel  W. 
Eckel,  J.  Lewis. 

Drummers. 

Flynn,  Joseph.  Giravd,  Augustus. 

Privates. 

Bell,  John  A.  .  Harward,  Wm.  E. 

*Bell,  Wm.  G.  Hawkins,  John  M. 

Cowles,  Wm.  G.  Haynes,  C.  O.  F. 

Dutton,  Van  Burcn.  Jarvis,  John  F. 

Fox,  John  W.  Jenkins,  J.  B. 

Fuller,  Benjamin.  Kingsland,  Wm.  H. 

Gardiner,  E.  G.  *Loud,  John  S. 

Godley,  John  L.  Magary,  Wm.  W. 

Grosvinor,  Levi.  Murray,  Robert. 


FORT   FEDERAL   HILL. 


257 


Mazzetti,  George  W. 
Nicholl,  Augustus  W. 
Patterson,  H.  M. 
Pease,  Edward  C. 
Post,  George  W. 
Quail,  George. 
Eeid,  Robert. 
*Rogers,  Charles. 
Romaine,  Wm.  H. 
Rust,  John  H. 
Sadler,  Thomas.    . 


Schoonmaker,  Henry  P. 
*Smith,  Henry  W. 
*Ste\vart,  William. 
Tibbals,  Lewis  P. 
Timolat,  H.  M. 
*VanderbiIt,  DeWitt  C. 
*Wall,  William,  Jr. 
•Whitney,  Thomas  E. 
Yeaton,  Samuel  C. 
Young,  Lewis  L. 
Eraser,  John  M.,  Teamster. 


SIXTH    COMPANY  (F). 
Captain,  JOSEPH  B.  YOUNG. 


1st  Lieutenant,  Edward  0.  Bird. 

Sergeants. 

Carnes,  Lewis  M.  (Orderly). 
Palmer,  George  H. 
Thomas,  George  F.,  Jr. 
Smedburg,  Charles  G. 
Vance,  W.  Henry. 


Gerard,  William. 


Barney,  Lewis  T. 
Bassett,  Frederic  B. 
Birmingham,  J.  Erskine. 
Bissell,  Augustus  H. 
*Brady,  Abner  S. 
•Brinkerhoff,  Gordon  G. 
Bronson,  Willett. 
Burnham,  Douglass. 
Chambers,  Samuel,  Jr. 
Clark,  Washington  J. 
Congdon,  Henry  M. 
Congdon,  Walter. 
Conger,  William  F. 
Cozzens,  Edward. 
DeHart,  William  C. 
Douglass,  Archibald. 
17 


2d  Lieutenant,  Peyton  Jaudon. 

Corporals. 

Vermilye,  Washington  P. 
Gardiner,  Charles  C. 
*Barbey,  Henry  J. 
Middlebrook,  George  L. 


Drummers. 


Hancock,  Thomas. 


Privates. 


Dunne,  James. 
Elsworth,  Asher  M. 
Fernald,  William  H. 
Forgerson,  Israel. 
Foster,  Augustus  C. 
Foster,  James  A. 
Gallatin,  Frederick. 
Gordon,  James. 
Haight,  Charles  C. 
Hardy,  John  F. 
Harison,  Francis. 
Hart,  Giflford  R, 
Hayne,  Jacob  W. 
Hicks,  Henry  W. 
Holly,  Henry  Hudson. 
Hone,  John. 


258 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


Irwin,  Frederick  T. 
James,  Julian. 
Jenkins,  Elisha  J. 
Kip,  William  W. 
*Lawrence,  William  B. 
Little,  Emlen  T. 
Livingston,  Mortimer. 
Long,  John  T. 
Lyon,  Amasa. 
Lyon,  Edward. 
Mallaby,  Theodore. 
Marriner,  Edward. 
McCabe,  James. 
Middlebrook,  Charles  T. 
Miller,  John. 
Miller,  Lindley  H. 
Murray,  Wisner. 
Musgrave,  Joseph. 
Musgrave,  Thomas  B. 
Norton,  Charles  L. 
Pattison,  William  H. 
*Pell,  Alfred,  Jr. 
Pell,  James  B. 
Pell,  Robert  T. 
Potter,  Horatio. 


Potter,  Robert. 
Raynor,  James  W.  (July  5). 
Robson,  John  F. 
*Smith,  Edward  S. 
Sniffen,  John  A. 
Stephenson,  William  W. 
*Stoutenburgh,  William  A. 
Taylor,  Henry  (July  7). 
Teer,  Henry  T. 
Thomas,  Henry  K. 
*Timpson,  John  W. 
Tomes,  Charles  H. 
Turner,  H.  B.  (June  30). 
Van  Benschoten,  Edward  W. 
Van  Rensselaer,  Philip  L. 
Van  Wagenen,  Wm.  M. 
Vernon,  George  R. 
*Walduck,  David  M. 
Warren,  Robert. 
*Whiting,  William  T. 
^Williamson,  S.  Abeel. 
Wilson,  George  W. 
Wood,  Wilmer  S. 
*Woolsey,  Theodorus  B. 
*Young,  Mansfield. 


SEVENTH    COMPANY  (G). 

Captain,  GEORGE  W.  ELY. 
1st  Lieutenant,  John  H.  U.  Kemp. 

Sergeants. 


2d  Lieutenant,  Edwin  M.  Felt. 


Bidwell,  Henry  S.  (Orderly}. 
Coger,  John  J. 
Delano,  Thomas  E. 
Meacham,  George  G. 
McKesson,  John,  Jr. 

Lydecker,  Albert. 


Anderson,  John  S. 
A  very,  John,  Jr. 


Corporals. 
Dunscomb,  John  H.  A. 
Sherman,  Samuel  J. 
Chevalier,  George. 
Callender,  William  E 


DrummKis. 


Norwood,  Richard. 


Privates. 


Bacon,  Richard  S. 
Bancker,  Gerard. 


FORT   FEDERAL  HILL. 


259 


Banks,  Joseph  E. 
Barreto,  William  H.  H. 
Beebe,  William  H. 
Bennett,  Augustus  C.  M. 
Blunt,  Edmund. 
Bowne,  Robert  S. 
Campbell,  Allen  S. 
Cortelyon,  James  H. 
Crane,  Edward  S. 
Eddy,  Clinton. 
Fleming,  Charles  E. 
Freeborn,  James  F.,  Jr. 
Gardner,  John  W. 
Geisse,  William  F. 
Greene,  Herbert  G.  C. 
Hale,  Edward  D. 
Harper,  Condy. 
*Hayden,  James  T. 
Holdredge,  David  M. 
*Hutchins,  Robert  A. 
Ingersoll,  James  H. 
Jackson,  Charles  A. 
Kingsland,  Phineas  C. 
Louderback,  David,  Jr. 
McDonough,  Louis  R. 
McGraw,  Richard  D. 
McJimsey,  Eugene. 
Millie,  Thomas  H. 
Perrin,  Jared  L. 
Phipps,  John  M. 
Pinkney,  Frederick  H. 
Pomeroy,  Edward  G. 


Pomeroy,  Eugene  H. 
Pomeroy,  George  V.,  Jr. 
Potts,  William  R. 
Putnam,  Edward  T. 
Putnam,  Nathaniel  W. 
Rice,  William  F. 
*Risley,  Leander  S. 
Roberts,  Eugene  F. 
*Schram,  James  E. 
Schermerhorn,  Charles  H. 
Schermerhorn,  Edward  E. 
Schermerhorn,  Louis. 
Schermerhorn,  William  H. 
Sherman,  Albert  G. 
Shipman,  Sylvester  D. 
Smith,  Andrew  J. 
Stage,  Thomas  V. 
Steers,  Abram,  Jr. 
Stephens,  Edward. 
Stokely,  Noah  B. 
*Stone*  William  H. 
Taylor,  William  F. 
Tiffany,  George  F. 
Tiffany,  Henry  D. 
Tiffany,  Lyman. 
Thorp,  Richard  A. 
Trotter,  Edgar  A. 
Van  Loan,  Benjamin  F. 
Wheelwright,  William  G. 
Whittingham,  Samuel  H. 
Woodward,  Newton. 
Yeoman,  Anthony. 


EIGHTH    COMPANY  (H). 

Captain,  HENRY  C.  SHUMWAY. 

1st  Lieutenant,  John  W.  Spicer.         2d  Lieutenant,  Gilbert  L.  Arrowsmith. 


Sergeants. 

Rogers,  Edmund  P.  (Orderly). 
*Marvine,  William  H. 
Loder,  Benjamin. 
Ryder,  Alfred  V. 
Mather,  De  Witt  C. 


Corporals. 

Trowbridge,  Joseph. 
Easton,  Alfred  W. 
Howell,  William. 


260 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


Peck,  John. 

Allen,  Charles  D. 
*Arms,  Charles  E. 
Barton,  Charles  A. 
Bragaw,  Elias  T. 
Burdett,  Peter  G. 
Burkhalter,  John  H. 
Casey,  William  C. 
Champion,  Charles  P. 
Coles,  Edward  O. 
*Coles,  William  H.  W. 
Curtis,  Benjamin  L. 
Dart,  Edward. 
Daskam,  James  W. 
Dean,  Lascallas. 
Delano,  Victor  M. 
Douglas,  John  A. 
Dinsmore,  William  B. 
Eager,  Peter. 
Easton,  Frederick  J. 
*Eaton,  Daniel  C. 
*Eno,  Amos  F. 
Gifford,  Sanford  R. 
Gillilen,  John. 
Gross,  Francis,  Jr. 
*Hall,  Robert  L.  S. 
Hollister,  Henry  K. 
Hurlhut,  William  H. 
Jackson,  Frank  D. 
Johnson,  Ebenezer  R. 
Keeise,  John. 


Drummers. 


Privates. 


Smith,  Colville. 

Knight,  Azariah. 
*Lannery,  William  K 
Mabie,  Foster  W. 
Mann,  Daniel  S. 
Mansfield,  William  D. 
Morgan,  William  II. 
Muller,  Adrian  H.,  Jr. 
Murray,  George  W 
Murray,  Henry  S. 
Nielson,  Edward  W. 
Owen,  William  H. 
Pease,  Walter  A. 
Polhemus,  Henry  A.,  Jr. 
Richardson,  George  R. 
Ross,  William  B. 
Russell,  Richard. 
Satherwaite,  John  F. 
Smith,  Cyrus  L. 
Smith,  Louis  B. 
Smith,  William  W. 
Swift,  Frederick  B. 
Talcott,  Edward  N.  K. 
Thomas,  James  R. 
Van  Woert,  John. 
Waldo,  Howard. 
Walz,  Ernest. 
Williams,  George  P. 
Willis,  John  0. 
*Woodman,  Webster. 


NINTH   COMPANY    (I). 
,   Captain,  CHARLES  A.  EASTON. 
1st  Lieutenant,  Henry  A.  Cragin. 

Sergeants. 
McBride,  Irwin  H.  (Orderly). 


Tyng,  Thomas  M. 
Barnes,  William  H.  L 
Mooro,  Lawrence,  Jr. 
Keeler,  Edwin,  Jr. 


2d  Lieutenant,  Charles  C.  White 

Corporals. 
A  very,  Henry  N. 
O'Brien,  Oswin. 
Corey,  Robert  P. 
Ketchum,  Edmund. 


FORT   FEDERAL  HILL. 


261 


Drummers. 


Terhune,  Edward. 

Abecasis,  Marco. 
^Andrews,  George  D. 
Arthur,  Edward  G. 
Barney,  Newcomb. 
Bill,  Avery. 
Blackwell,  Charles  G. 
Brock,  Henry. 
Bugel,  Benedict. 
Burdick,  Samuel  C. 
Bush,  Theodore  H. 
Caldwell,  Elisha  S. 
*Calhoun,  James. 
*Carpenter,  Samuel  W. 
Center,  Alexander. 
Church,  Elihu  D. 
Clark,  Robert  N. 
Clark,  William  M. 
Davis,  George  T.  M. 
Dayton,  George  E. 
Dunncll,  George  H. 
Dtmncll,  John  H 
Edgar,  Samuel  P. 
*Fordred,  Drayson. 
Huntington,  Charles. 
Kerr,  Henry  T. 
King,  Charles  E. 
Kinney,  Charles  N. 
Knapp,  Edgar  S. 
Lent,  Whitman  S. 
Lewis,  George  W. 


Privates, 


Van  Raden,  Augustus. 

Lounsberry,  James  H. 
Macfarlane,  Victor  W. 
Marlor,  George. 
Martin,  Peter  H. 
McCrea,  John  E. 
Mingay,  Elwood  B. 
Nandaine,  George  D. 
Neilson,  Charles  E. 
Oliver,  Theodore. 
Perkins,  Frederick  W. 
Proper,  Isaac. 
Rockwell,  Fenton. 
Rodgers,  John. 
Rutherford,  John  H. 
Ryan,  William  H. 
Salisbury,  Edward  L. 
Schermerhorn,  Alfred. 
Schermerhorn,  William  B. 
*  Seaman,  Jamison  C. 
Seaman,  William. 
Shaw,  Albert  0. 
Sprague,  Charles  G. 
Stone,  George  H. 
Sweet,  Milton  B. 
Tufts,  John  M. 
*Tyng,  Charles  R. 
*Van  Iderstine,  Peter,  Jr. 
Van  Nest,  William  L. 
Wheeler,  Thomas  M. 
Youle,  George. 


TENTH  COMPANY  (K). 

Captain,  GEORGE  C.  FARRAR  (June  17). 

1st  Lieutenant,  Thomas  Lord,  Jr. 


Sergeants. 

Lentilhon,  Joseph  (Orderly). 
Lawrence,  John. 
Bleecker,  James. 
Bleecker,  Theo.  B.,  Jr. 
Ray,  James. 


Corporals. 

Clinton,  Charles  W. 
McJimsey,  Robert  M. 
Voorhees,  Charles  H. 
Drake,  Lawrence. 


262 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 


Field,  John. 


Drummers. 

Corrie,  Enice. 

Privates. 


Beebe,  Edward. 

Beyea,  James  L. 

Boardman,  Daniel  F. 

Bogcrt,  Charles  L. 

*Bradshaw,  William  H. 

Brown,  Milnor. 

Cannon,  James  (Armorer). 

Churchill,  John  L.  (June  5.) 

Clark,  Henry  W. 

Clarke,  Frank  (June  1 ). 

Cox,  Wittingham. 

De  Kuyter,  Charles. 

Du  Bois,  Cornelius  I. 

Edey,  Henry. 

Foote,  Emerson. 

*Freeborn,  Thomas. 

Gautry,  Harrison  J. 

Guion,  George  G. 

*Hart,  Lucius,  Jr. 

Howes,  Howard  S. 

Hyatt,  Effingham  T. 

Jackson,  Oliver  P. 

Kobbe,  Win.  A.,  Jr.  (June  5). 

Lacombe,  E.  Henry. 

Lawrence,  Emlin  N.  (May  31). 

Leggett,  Francis  W. 

Livingston,  Chas.  (June  6). 


Morris,  James  S.  (June  6). 

Morris,  Stuyvesant  F.  (June'l). 

Morse,  N.  B.,  Jr. 

Milhall,  Rene  V. 

Macy,  Charles  A.,  Jr. 

McAllister,  John. 

Mortimer,  Clarence  A. 

Moss,  Nathan  F. 

Miller,  George  N. 

Osborn,  Charles  H. 

Pierson,  Henry  L.,  Jr. 

Schenck,  Charles  S. 

Schieffelin,  Wm.  H. 

Scott,  David  J. 

*Slosson,  William. 

Stewart,  Albert  P. 

Tanitor,  Frank  L. 

Taylor,  James  B. 

Thorne,  Jonathan. 

*Tucker,  John  A. 

Valentine,  Albert  E. 

Van  Cortlandt,  Aug.  (June  6). 

Van  Winkle,  Edgar  B.  (June  3). 

Welles,  Ed.  B. 

White,  John  C. 

Wotherspoon,  Henry  H. 


The  circumstances  of  muster-in  just  noted,  and  more  es 
pecially  the  fact  that  the  regiment  had  been  forced  to  do 
duty  at  Baltimore  instead  of  at  the  front,  greatly  increased 
the  absenteeism,  and  the  consequent  difficulty  of  granting 
furloughs,  even  when  the  latter  were  really  needed.  The 
difficulties  of  maintaining  the  regiment  effective  were  very 
great,  and  required  much  tact  on  the  one  hand  and  de 
cision  on  the  other.  On  the  4th  of  June,  in  reply  to 
Colonel  Lefferts's  inquiries,  Adjutant -General  Hillhouse 
wrote,  that,  the  muster  not  having  yet  been  made, "  there  is 


FORT   FEDERAL   HILL.  263 

no  way  of  enforcing  the  attendance  of  absent  officers." 
Two  days  after  the  Seventh  took  possession  of  Federal 
Hill,  the  War  Department,  in  General  Order  No.  65,  de 
clared  that  "  furloughs  will  not  be  granted  by  captains  of 
companies  or  colonels  of  regiments  on  any  pretext  what 
ever.  A  furlough  from  such  authority  will  not  relieve  a 
soldier  from  the  charge  of  desertion."  Colonel  Lefferts  at 
once  reminded  the  Secretary  of  War  of  the  peculiar  cir 
cumstances  under  which  the  regiment  had  come  on,  as 
expressed  in  General  Hillhouse's  letter,  and  asked  for  the 
exercise  of  discretionary  power.  The  Secretary  promptly 
replied,  in  a  letter  to  General  Wool,  making  the  case  of 
the  Seventh  Regiment  a  special  exception  to  the  order 
just  quoted.  Mr.  Stanton's  letter  closed  as  follows : 
"  Colonel  Lefferts  will  therefore  be  permitted  to  grant  rea 
sonable  furloughs,  with  that  discretion  which  he  will  be 
careful  to  exercise."  This  privilege  was  a  great  advantage 
gained  to  the  regiment,  and  one  for  which  they  were  very 
grateful. 

The  next  step  in  the  furlough  matter  was  a  notification, 
on  the  3d  of  July,  from  Brigadier-General  Morris,  then  com 
manding  the  forts,  that  "  furloughs  to  enlisted  men  can  be 
granted  only  in  cases  of  extreme  necessity,  such  as  serious 
illness  in  the  family,  the  evidence  of  which  must  accom 
pany  the  applications."  Finally,  the  War  Department,  in 
a  fit  of  desperation  over  the  absenteeism  prevalent  through 
out  the  army,  "  revoked  and  absolutely  annulled  all  fur 
loughs  by  whomsoever  given,  unless  by  the  War  Depart 
ment,"  and  ordered  all  officers  and  men  "  capable  of  ser 
vice  "  to  forthwith  join  their  regiments.* 

Garrison  life  at  Federal  Hill  was  not  vastly  different 
(save  for  artillery  drill)  from  camp  life  at  Camp  Cameron, 

*  General  Orders  No.  92  and  No.  102.  The  Ninth  Company  of  the  Seventh 
Regiment  expelled  one  of  its  members,  on  the  16th  of  June,  for  having  failed  to 
report  on  the  expiration  of  his  furlough,  and  to  give  reasons  satisfactory  for  not 
reporting.  This  action  was  read  at  evening  parade. 


264  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

described  earlier  in  this  volume.  What  its  general  duties 
were  may  be  learned  from  Standing  Order  No.  1,  which 
still  remained  in  force  after  the  departure  from  Camp  Wool, 
except  that  "  inspection  of  quarters  "  was  changed  to  five 
o'clock,  P.  M.,  and  evening  parade  to  six,  P.  M.  It  was  a  gay 
and  pleasant  life,  with  enough  duty  and  service  to  make  it 
enjoyable  from  reveille  to  tattoo.  The  morning  gun  at  sun 
rise,  followed  by  the  rattlings  of  the  reveille,  startles  every 
man  from  his  bunk,  or  from  his  blanket  spread  under  the 
trees  or  on  the  verandah.  Roll-call  and  the  morning's  wash 
at  the  hydrant  follow.  Then  comes  a  cup  of  coffee,  by  way 
of  stimulus  to  the  long  company  drill,  which  is  terminated 
only  by  breakfast.  This  meal  is  attacked,  after  such  an 
appetizer,  with  vigor,  especially  as  the  government  rations 
have  been  eked  out  with  milk,  eggs,  fruits,  and  vegetables 
bought  from  hucksters.  Guard-mounting  and  company  or 
battalion  drill  fill  up  the  morning  till  dinner.  Between 
that  time  and  the  inspection  and  parade  of  the  evening 
there  is  time  for  leisure  and  camp  sports,  and  for  furloughs 
to  visit  the  city  or  the  other  forts.  The  delicious  hours  of 
evening  are  passed  first  on  the  parapet,  and  then  in  front 
of  company  quarters,  by  officers  and  men  in  pleasant  con 
verse.  Tattoo  at  ten  breaks  up  these  gatherings,  and  half 
an  hour  later  come  taps,  when  lights  go  out,  and  the  day  is 
done. 

•  A  few  days  after  taking  possession  of  the  fort,  Colonel 
Lefferts  issued  the  following :  — 

STANDING  ORDER  NO.  2. 

Sentinels  will  not  allow  any  one  connected  with  the  regiment  to  enter 
or  leave  the  Fort,  excepting  officers,  or  such  as  may  have  a  written  pass. 

The  countersign  will  not  be  given  to  the  Guard  until  Tattoo,  after 
which  time  they  will  challenge  all  who  approach. 

Only  officers  are  allowed  the  countersign ;  and  when  a  soldier  de 
mands  admittance  to  the  Fort,  upon  giving  the  countersign  he  must  be 
arrested  and  confined  in  the  Guard-House. 


FORT   FEDERAL   HILL.  265 

Sentinels  will  not  take  orders,  nor  allow  themselves  to  be  relieved  ex* 
cept  by  an  officer  or  non-commissioned  officer  of  the  Guard,  the  Officer 
of  the  Day,  or  the  Commanding  Officer. 

Sentinels  will  report  every  breach  of  orders  or  regulations  which  they 
are  instructed  to  enforce.  They  must  not  quit  their  posts  without  being 
regularly  relieved. 

None  but  colored  servants  will  be  allowed  to  pass  in  and  out  at  the 
rear  sally  port,  except  upon  order  of  the  officer  of  the  Guard,  who  will, 
in  such  case',  cause  the  order  or  the  reasons  for  it  to  be  registered  in 
the  Guard-Book. 

The  sally  port  will  be  closed  at  Retreat,  and  must  not  be  opened  again, 
under  any  pretext  whatever,  until  eight  o'clock,  A.  M  ,  each  day. 

The  Fort  is  not  open  to  general  visitors,  but  the  friends  and  relatives  of 
members  of  the  regiment  may  be  admitted.  All  such  persons,  however, 
must  leave  before  twilight. 

No  one  will  be  allowed  on  the  parapet  except  the  sentinels,  Officer  of 
the  Guard,  or  such  persons  as  may  have -official  business  there. 

All  persons  arrested  (officers  excepted)  must  be  detained  in  the  Guard- 
House  until  guard-mounting,  at  which  time  they  will  be  brought  before 
the  Commanding  Officer.  Soldiers  who  are  late  on  passes,  if  not  exceed 
ing  half  an  hour,  may  be  allowed  to  go  to  their  quarters  on  parole  until 
gu  ar  d-moun  ting. 

At  the  suggestion  of  Surgeon  Rogers,  it  was  also  made 
a  standing  order  for  the  sentinel  at  the  hospital  post  to 
permit  no  officer  or  non-commissioned  officer  (except  the 
attendants)  to  enter  or  leave  the  hospital  without  a  pass. 

The  battalion  and  company  drills,  which  were  rigid  and 
thorough,  were  held  in  the  fort,  in  the  street,  in  the  ad 
jacent  parade-ground,  or  in  the  open  fields  near  Fort  Mc- 
Henry.  The  variety  of  terrain  helped  give  the  regiment 
the  remarkable  facility  and  proficiency  in  manoeuvre  which 
it  acquired  at  Baltimore.  The  inspection  of  quarters,  with 
the  band  playing,  was  always  a  soldierly  and  creditable 
performance  ;  but  the  most  brilliant  and  attractive  exercise 
was  the  evening  dress-parade,  held  in  the  fort  or  the  ad 
jacent  street,  and  usually  followed  by  a  drill  in  the  manual 
of  arms  or  battalion  manoeuvres.  The  number  of  visitors 
was  always  very  large.  Reviews  were  frequent.  Artillery 


266  HISTORY   OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

drill,  with  the  heavy  ordnance,  was  established  by  order 
of  General  Morris,  and  formed  part  of  the  day's  duties. 
Police  duty  was  performed  with  praiseworthy  fidelity  in 
all  its  details.  Manning  the  fire-engine  ought  certainly 
to  be  introduced  under  the  head  of  the  sports,  rather  than 
the  tasks,  of  garrison  life,  especially  as  no  fires  occurred 
during  the  Seventh's  campaign.  The  guard  duty  was 
carefully  attended  to,  as  the  importance  of  the  station  de 
manded. 

"  The  guard,"  says  one  account,  "  is  mounted  with  great  care,  and 
strictly  according  to  regulation,  so  the  soldier  quietly  submits  to  another 
inspection,  stands  steadily  and  composedly  in  the  ranks  while  the  band 
beats  off,  witnesses  the  wonderful  evolutions  of  Drum-Major  Graham, 
glances  at  the  soldier  critics  who  have  for  him  no  word  or  look  of  sym 
pathy  or  pity,  and  is  finally  marched  in  review  to  the  guard-house.  If, 
on  the  first  relief,  he  is  immediately  marched  by  the  corporal  to  his  post, 
and  for  the  next  twenty-four  hours  loses  his  name  and  personal  iden 
tity,  and  is  only  known  as  No.  11,  17,  or  24,  he  is  fortunate  if  he 
escapes  the  dull  posts  at  the  magazines,  or  the  horrors  of  the  rear  sally 
port,  and  secures  a  desirable  position  at  the  entrance  or  upon  the  para 
pet.  The  sentry  upon  the  parapet  has  a  fine  field  for  observation  and 
meditation.  As  he  marches  back  and  forth  within  his  prescribed  limits, 
he  gazes  philosophically  upon  the  amphitheatre  of  house-tops,  upon  the 
beautiful  river  and  bay,  dotted  with  sails  and  alive  with  the  pursuits  of 
commerce,  upon  the  green  hills,  or  the  blue  waters  of  the  Chesapeake  in 
the  distance,  and  it  is  not  long  before  every  object  within  his  range  of 
vision  is  as  familiar  as  the  scenes  of  home  or  childhood.  Should  the  heat 
of  the  day  or  the  brilliancy  of  the  Southern  sun  be  uncommonly  oppres 
sive,  his  movements  become  slow,  listless,  and  languid,  and  he  prays  for 
his  two  hours  to  expire,  and  for  the  welcome  relief.  Rain  sometimes 
visits  the  sentry  upon  his  post,  in  which  case  he  is  seen,  clad  in  rubber 
garments,  facing  the  pitiless  storm  with  arms  secured,  trudging  through 
mud  and  water,  an  abject  specimen  of  miserable  humanity.  Night  shuts 
out  the  beautiful  prospect,  and  brings  silence  and  repose  to  the  surround 
ing  world,  but  no  rest  to  the  sentry.  Through  the  long  and  dreary  hours 
of  the  night  his  duty  continues,  and  as  there  is  nothing  to  divert  the 
eye,  he  paces  slowly  up  and  down,  rapt  in  meditation,  dreaming  of  home, 
or  friends,  or  of  the  bright  events  of  the  past,  scanning  leisurely  the 
stirring  events  of  the  present,  or  conjuring  up  golden  visions  of  the 
future.  If  it  chance  to  be  moonlight,  then  the  guard  duty  at  night  is 


FORT   FEDERAL   HILL.  267 

more  pleasant  than  by  day,  for  the  scene  is  so  brilliant  in  its  calm  re 
pose,  that  many  a  soldier  of  artistic  eye  and  poetic  mind  forgets  his  sleep, 
and  enjoys  its  beauties  with  the  sentry.  Yet  morning  light  and  sun 
shine  are  always  welcome,  for  they  restore  the  garrison  to  life  and 
activity,,  and  announce  the  approaching  end  of  the  day's  guard  duty. 
When  not  upon  post  duty,  the  sentry  must  be  at  the  guard-house,  where 
he  lounges  through  his  few  hours  of  leisure,  ready  at  any  moment,  at  the 
cry,  '  Turn  out  the  guard  ! '  to  seize  his  musket,  take  his  place  in  line,  and 
salute  the  commandant  of  the  post,  the  officer  of  the  day,  or  any  military 
visitor  entitled  to  the  honor.  Nor  is  there  any  peace  for  the  sentry,  at 
the  guard-house,  at  night.  He  must  turn  out  to  receive  the  'grand 
rounds,'  and  if,  by  chance,  he  sleeps  the  corporal  of  the  guard,  in  search 
of  the  members  of  his  relief,  wakes  him  every  two  hours  by  a  sharp 
punch  of  the  foot,  by  rolling  him  over,  or  by  thrusting  a  lantern  in  his 
face."  * 

These  routine  duties,  and  a  large  class  of  special  duties 
in  detached  service,  which  we  shall  next  proceed  to  record, 
kept  the  regiment  well  occupied  ;  and  as  there  were  few 
men  to  spare,  no  shirking  or  pretence  of  sickness  was  al 
lowed  by  Surgeon  Rogers.  Work,  drills,  good  rations, 
cleanliness,  and  abundance  of  high  and  pure  air,  kept  the 
regiment  in  admirable  health  throughout  the  campaign. 

On  occupying  Federal  Hill,  the  Seventh  Regiment  found, 
.that,  in  obedience  to  the  orders  of  General  Dix,  repairs 
were  making  in  its  slopes,  <fcc.,  by  direction  of  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  H.  Brewerton,  United  States  Corps  of  Engineers, 
unt'er  the  immediate  supervision  of  Assistant-Engineer 
N.  H.  Button.  The  Seventh  arrived  at  a  happy  moment, 
since  it  had  just  previously  been  determined  to  use  civilian 
laborers  in  place  of  enlisted  men,  as  hitherto,  in  making 
these  repairs,  —  anything  but  pleasant  exercise  in  mid 
summer.  Daily,  therefore,  Mr.  Parkinson,  the  foreman, 
with  a  gang  of  laborers,  entered  the  fort  and  ascended  the 
ramparts  to  do  this  work,  and,  agreeably  to  request  from 
Colonel  Brewerton,  was  afforded  "  every  facility  of  men  and 
material  for  the  repairs." 

*  History  of  Second  Company. 


268  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

On  the  23d  of  June,  Brevet  Brigadier-General  W.  W. 
Morris,  U.  S.  A.,  was  placed  by  General  Wool  in  command 
of  all  the  forts  in  Baltimore  and  its  vicinity,  with  direc 
tions  to  make  an  immediate  inspection  of  them,  to  see  that 
the  guns,  platform,  and  carriages  were  properly  positioned 
and  in  working  order.  It  was  also  ordered  that  "  he  will, 
as  far  as  practicable,  cause  the  garrisons  to  be  instructed  in 
the  manual  and  manosuvres  of  the  guns,  and  see  that  the 
magazines  are  properly  supplied  with  ammunition."  Gen 
eral  Morris  accordingly  called  upon  Colonel  Lefferts  for  an 
immediate  report  of  the  defensive  condition  of  the  post., 
and,  after  minutely  inspecting  the  pieces  mounted,  to  report 
the  amount  of  repairs,  if  any,  that  may  be  necessary  to 
make  them  fit  for  immediate  use."  A  subsequent  order 
called  for  reports  of  "  how  many  days'  fuel  and  forage  you 
now  have  on  hand  at  your  post.  What  supply  of  water, 
for  drinking  and  cooking  purposes,  have  you  within  the 
works  of  your  post  ?  Also,  what  are  the  means  of  trans 
portation  at  your  post,  namely,  horses,  wagons,  boats, 
<fec.  ?  "  Still  another  for  information,  "  as  soon  as  practi 
cable,  of  the  number  of  fire-engines,  complete  (and  if  the 
fixtures  of  the  water-works  at  the  post  are  adapted  to  the- 
use  of  fire-engines),  axes,  pickaxes,  shovels,  spades,  now  at 
your  post."  And,  in  the  course  of  his  replies  to  these  and 
many  other  inquiries  showing  an  anxiety  to  put  the  fort 
into  condition  for  an  emergency,  Colonel  LefTerts  said :  — 

"  I  would  respectfully  state  that  three  ofpthe  eight-inch  Columbiads  re 
quire  remounting,  in  consequence  of  the  sinking  of  the  parapets. 

"  A  party  of  laborers,  under  a  foreman,  sent  by  the  Engineer  Depart 
ment,  is  at  work  upon  the  fort,  increasing  the  thickness  of  some  of  the 
parapets,  and  keeping  the  whole  in  order. 

"  I  mentioned  yesterday,  that  there  are  long  galleries,  or  tunnels,  run 
ning  under  the  works.  They  are  quite  extensive ;  one  on  the  north  side 
passes  under  the  barracks,  and  within  twenty  feet  of  the  magazine ;  one 
running  from  the  east  side  also  passes  under  the  barracks." 

It  should  be  noted,  that,  when  the  Seventh  entered  the 


FORT    FEDERAL    HILL.  269 

fort,  it  was  discovered,  that,  ever  since  General  Butler's  en 
trance  into  it  in  1861,  it  had  been  undermined,  and  people 
had  been  taking  sand  out  from  the  hill.  As  to  the  re 
mounting  of  the  Columbiads,  work  was  begun  on  them  on  the 
7th  of  July,  thirty  men  being  detailed  to  mount  and  remount 
them,  agreeably  to  the  following  order  from  head-quarters  :  — 

'•  COLONEL,  —  The  Brigadier- General  Commanding  having  received  a 
communication  from  the  Engineer  Office,  stating  that  work  would  be 
commenced  on  the  Columbiads  platformed  on  the  3d  inst.,  and  asking 
for  assistance,  directs  that  thirty  (30)  men  of  your  command  be  detailed 
and  placed  under  the  orders  of  the  Assistant-Engineer,  and  in  his  absence 
under  Ordnance-Sergeant  Isaacs,  who  will  receive  instructions  from  the 
Assistant-Engineer." 

This  detail  was  chosen  from  the  various  companies,  and, 
besides  the  work  indicated,  cleaned  the  guns,  repaired  the 
carriages,  put  the  whole  into  working  order,  and  arranged 
and  distributed  ammunition  from  the  magazines.  This 
work  was  performed  under  the  superintendence  of  Ordnance- 
Sergeant  Isaacs,  who  took  his  instructions  from  Assistant- 
Engineer  Hutton. 

The  importance  of  Fort  Federal  Hill  at  this  juncture -was 
manifest  by  the  strictness  of  the  orders  for  its  guidance. 
No  sand  or  other  material  was  suffered  to  be  removed  from 
the  hill.  Hucksters,  laundresses,  and  camp  followers  in 
general,  were  excluded  from  the  fort,  unless  they  had 
proper  vouchers  for  loyalty  and  good  character.  The  troops 
were  kept  constantly  supplied  with  forty  rounds  of  ammu 
nition  and  extra  caps,  and  their  pieces  habitually  loaded, 
in  accordance  with  the  following  order  from  head-quar 
ters  :  — 

"  I.  The  arms  of  the  troops  in  garrison,  at  Forts  Federal  Hill  and  Mar 
shall  will  be  kept  loaded  habitually. 

"  II.  Commanding  officers  of  companies  will  see  that  their  men  are  fur 
nished  with  forty  rounds  of  ball  cartridges  each,  with  extra  caps  in  their 
pouches. 

"  III.  Officers  of  the  guard  will  be  held  responsible  that  the  piece  of 


270  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

every  sentinel  posted  is  in  perfect  firing  order.     The  pieces  will  not  be 
capped  until  it  is  necessary  to  fire."  ' 

The  Columbiads  and  howitzers  were  also  kept  loaded  with 
shot  and  shell;  and  Colonel  Lefferts  was  particularly  en 
joined  to  have  hand  grenades  ready,  "  with  reference  to  the 
surrounding  blocks  of  houses,"  in  the  following  order  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  FORT  MCHENRY,  June  30, 1862. 

COLONEL,  —  The  Brigadier-General  Commanding  directs  that  the 
Columbiads  and  sea-coast  howitzers  at  Fort  Federal  Hill  be  loaded  with 
shell,  the  flank  casemate  twenty-four-pounder  howitzers  being  loaded 
with  grape-shot.  This  to  continue  until  further  orders. 

The  General  leaves  it  to  your  discretion  to  keep  any  of  the  other 
pieces  in  your  bastions  loaded,  and  would  recall  to  your  mind  his  con 
versation  with  you  concerning  the  importance  of  "  hand  grenades,"  in 
the  peculiar  position  of  your  fort,  with  reference  to  the  surrounding 
blocks  of  houses.  The  General  takes  it  for  granted  that  the  muskets  of 
your  men  are  kept  loaded,  and  in  firing  condition,  at  all  times. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

AL.  J.  S.  MOLINARD,  Capt.  2d  Arty.,  A.  A.  A.  G. 

While  such  were  the  daily  duties  within  the  fort,  there 
were  plenty  of  daily  details  for  detached  service  without. 
One  company  was  always  on  duty  as  before  at  Mount 
Clare  Station,  and  the  lightness  of  the  task  made  it  a 
coveted  one,  especially  as  there  was  more  opportunity  for 
passes  and  furloughs,  with  Baltimore  and  its  beautiful  en 
virons  for  attractions,  or  a  stroll  to  the  old  Carroll  House 
(relic  of  Colonial  grandeur  turned  to  a  tavern),  or  a  bath  in 
Spring  Garden  Creek.  A  guard  of  twelve  men  was  always 
stationed  at  the  storehouse  of  Brigade-Surgeon  C.  C.  Cox, 
the  medical  purveyor  of  the  department,  on  the  corner  of 
Eutaw  and  Conway  Streets,  for  the  protection  of  the  pub 
lic  property  at  that  depot.  A  guard  of  a  sergeant,  a  corpo 
ral,  and  eight  privates,  was  always  on  duty  at  the  office  of 
Quartermaster  James  Belger,  having  relieved  the  similar 
guard  of  the  Third  New  York. 

Guards,  too,  were  constantly  detailed  on  special  detached 
service.  Prisoners  of  war,  arriving  in  the  city  in  consider- 


FORT   FEDERAL   HILL.  271 

able  bodies,  were  committed  to  the  care  of  such  details, 
and  transported  by  boat  to  Fort  Delaware,  Fort  Monroe, 
and  other  military  prisons.  The  routine  in  such  cases  was 
commonly  for  a  company,  marching  simply  with  drum  and 
fife,  to  guard  the  prisoners  from  the  city  jail  to  the  boat ; 
a  detachment  of  an  officer  and  ten  men  usually  transferred 
them  from  that  point,  being  provided  with  one  or  two  days' 
rations,  as  the  case  might  require.  The  officer  in  com 
mand  was  furnished  with  a  list  of  his  prisoners,  which  he 
turned  over  to  the  commanding  officer  of  the  prison,  taking 
a  receipt  therefor.  Sometimes,  in  the  march  through  Bal 
timore,  it  was  the  prisoners  who  got  the  demonstrations  of 
sympathy,  and  the  guard  the  demonstrations  of  hatred. 
These  trips  to  Philadelphia  and  Fort  Monroe  were  greatly 
coveted,  as  indeed  was  all  special  duty  promising  a  little 
excitement.  Guards,  again,  were  detailed  to  accompany 
detachments  of  recruits,  exchanged  prisoners,  convales 
cents,  or  deserters,  to  Harrison's  Landing,  Washington,  and 
other  points  for  delivery  to  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  or 
the  Army  of  Virginia.  The  order,  in  such  cases,  might  be 
something  like  the  following  specimen  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  MIDDLE  DEPARTMENT, 

BALTIMORE,  MD.,  July  1,  1862. 

COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  —  You  are  hereby  respectfully  re 
quested  to  detail  one  company  of  your  command  to  report  at  the  Bal 
timore  City  Jail,  at  one  o'clock,  p.  M.,  of  this  day,  for  the  purpose  of 
escorting,  as  a  guard,  sixty-five  prisoners  of  war  to  the  boat  at  the  corner 
of  Pratt  and  Light  Streets,  for  Fort  Delaware  One  officer  and  ten  men  to 
proceed  with  said  prisoners  to  Fort  Delaware,  and  they  to  be  delivered 
there  to  Captain  A.  A.  Gibson,  commanding  at  that  post,  and  his  re 
ceipt  taken  therefor.  The  residue  of  the  escort  may  return  to  your 
quarters  so  soon  as  the  prisoners  are  placed  on  board  of  the  boat. 
By  command  of  Major-General  Jno.  E.  Wool, 

H.  Z.  HAYNES,  Major  and  A.  D.  C. 

(INDORSEMENT  ) 

Received,  Fort  Delaware,   Delaware,    July  2,  1862,  of  Lieutenant 
Palmer,  New  York  Militia,  sixty-four  prisoners  of  war. 

A.  A.  GIBSON,  Captain  Second  Artillery,  Commanding. 


272  HISTORY   OF   THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Large  details  were  often  sent  to  remove  the  sick  and 
wounded  coming  by  steamer  from  Virginia  or  the  hospitals. 
For  example,  three  commissioned  officers  and  seventy-five 
men  removed  the  wounded  from  the  Louisiana,  July  21,  and 
three  officers  and  fifty  men  those  of  the  Knickerbocker, 
July  25,  reporting  to  Brigade-Surgeon  C.  M.  Jones,  Medi 
cal  Director.  The  "  History  of  the  Second  Company"  says  : 
"  This  unpleasant  duty  was  performed  with  a  care,  kind 
ness,  and  gentleness  so  remarkable,  that  it  was  noticed  in 
general  orders,  and  received  the  most  flattering  commenda 
tion  from  the  surgeons." 

Funeral  escorts  were  furnished  for  a  time  to  soldiers 
buried  from  the  Camden  Street  General  Hospital.  A  sad 
duty  of  this  nature  was  that  which  a  detachment  had  to 
perform  in  the  escort  of  the  remains  of  Lieutenant  Baker, 
of  Colonel  Lefferts's  staff,  who  died  suddenly,  on  the  12th 
of  June,  of  heart-disease.  An  escort  was  given  to  the  re 
mains  of  a  member  of  the  Sixty-Ninth  Regiment  of  New 
York  State  Militia,  then  encamped  at  CJoud's  Mills,  Vir 
ginia,  for  which  service  hearty  thanks  were  returned  by 
his  comrades  in  this  Preamble  and  Resolution  :  — 

"  Whereas,  Colonel  Marshall  Lefferts,  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  New 
York  State  Militia,  ordered  and  directed  that  said  deceased  should  have 
a  soldier's  funeral,  and  paid  the  last  tribute  of  respect,  which,  on  account 
of  the  urgency  of  orders,  we  were  prevented  from  doing  ;  therefore 

"  Resolved,  That  Colonel  Lefferts  and  the  officers  and  men  of  his  com 
mand  are  entitled  to  the  lasting  gratitude  of  the  officers  and  members  of 
not  only  this  company  but  of  the  entire  regiment ;  that  while  we,  from 
the  bottom  of  our  hearts,  deplore  the  loss  of  so  brave  a  man  as  the  de 
ceased,  the  sorrow  with  which  we  are  filled  is  alleviated  by  the  prompt 
and  noble  impulse  which  sprung  so  spontaneously  from  the  courageous 
bosoms  of  the  Seventh ;  and  that  we  tender  to  them  our  thanks,  while 
we  hope  that  not  a  soldier  of  them  shall  in  like  circumstances  fail  to 
receive  similar  honors." 

At  the  funeral  of  Ex-President  Van  Buren  (August  4, 
1862),  in  obedience  to  orders  from  the  War  Department, 


FORT  FP:DERAL  HILL.  273 

a  salute  of  thirteen  guns  was  fired  at  dawn  of  day,  and  af 
terwards  a  single  gun  at  intervals  of  thirty  minutes  between 
rising  and  setting  sun,  and  at  sundown  thirty-four  guns. 
The  troops  were  paraded  at  10  A.  M.,  and  the  Depart 
ment's  order  was  read  to  them.  The  national  flag  was 
displayed  at  half-mast,  officers  wore  crape  on  the  left  arm 
and  on  their  swords,  and  the  regimental  colors  were  put  in 
mourning  for  the  rest  of  the  campaign. 

Besides  these  regular  and  frequent  duties,  there  were 
many  casual  services  to  be  performed,  of  which,  in  avoiding 
a  laborious  enumeration,  one  specimen  may  be  given  in  the 
following  order,  sent  June  24th  from  head-quarters  to  Colo 
nel  Lefferts,  and  acted  upon  instantly  upon  his  reception, 
Company  B  furnishing  the  detail :  — 

COLONEL,  —  As  some  prisoners  were  being  marched  through  the  city 
to  the  jail  this  morning,  a  demonstration  to  rescue  them  was  made  from 
the  house  on  Liberty  Street,  third  door  from  Lexington. 

Please  send  a  guard  of  one  N.  C.  Officer  and  twelve  men  to  guard  the 
premises  until  such  time  as  the  police  can  arrest  the  parties.     There  is 
a  soldier  of  the  Thirty-Seventh  Massachusetts  guarding  the  place. 
By  direction  of  Major-General  Wool, 

WM.  D.  WIIIPPLE,  A.  A.  G. 

P.  S.  Please  inform  General  Morris  when  you  see  him.  There  is 
not  time  to  send  the  order  through  him.  W.  D.  W. 

There  were  details  of  officers  for  detached  service. 
Lieutenant  Murray,  of  Company  C,  temporarily  acted  as  Act 
ing  Assistant  Adjutant-General,  or  Post  Adjutant,  at  Fort 
McHenry,  and  Assistant-Surgeon  Rogers  was  assigned  to 
duty  at  the  same  point.  Captain  Meday  and  Lieutenants 
Palmer  and  Jaudon  were  appointed  by  Department  orders 
as  a  board  "  to  examine  a  quantity  of  beef  issued  to  the 
Seventh  Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  M.,  and  reported  unfit  for 
issue."  Even  the  services  of  the  band  were  called  into 
requisition,  on  several  occasions,  for  civic  and  patriotic 
purposes,  by  the  people  of  Baltimore.  One  of  these  occa- 

18 


274  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

sions,  for  example,  was  a  flag-raising  by  the  citizens  of  the 
Twelfth  Ward  in  honor  of  the  First  Maryland  Regiment,  at 
the  corner  of  Eutaw  and  Preston  Streets,  and  another  was 
the  celebration  of  the  Fourth  of  July  under  the  auspices  of 
the  Union  League  Association.  And,  in  addition  to  the 
band,  a  guard  of  the  regiment  was  sometimes  required. 
The  Colonel  of  the  Seventh  himself  was  appointed  by 
General  Wool  to  inspect  all  the  volunteers  of  the  various 
States  encamped  at  Martinsburgh,  Williamsport,  Hagers- 
town,  and  Frederick,  besides  the  New  York  Volunteers  at 
Harper's  Ferry,  with  orders  to  make  at  each  place  "  a  rigid 
inspection  of  the  troops,  having  reference  to  the  appearance 
of  the  men,  their  clothing,  arms,  and  equipments,  and  of 
the  ammunition,  including  the  number  of  cartridges  in  the 
possession  of  each  man  and  also  in  store  with  the  regiment, 
the  tents  and  camp  equipage,  and  the  general  police  of  the 
regiments,  and  whether  the  men  are  properly  cared  for  and 
properly  instructed  in  their  drill."  The  following  were  his 
orders  and  instructions :  — 

Colonel  Marshall  Lefferts,  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  New  York  State 
Militia  is  appointed  to  inspect  the  troops  at  Martinsburgh,  Williams- 
port,  Hagerstown,  and  Frederick.  He  will  proceed  to-morrow  in  this 
duty  as  far  as  Martinsburgh.  After  a  rigid  inspection  of  the  troops  of 
this  command,  having  reference  to  the  appearance  of  the  men,  their 
clothing,  arms,  and  equipments,  and  of  the  ammunition,  including  the 
number  of  cartridges  in  the  possession  of  each  man,  and  also  in  store 
with  the  regiment,  he  will  inspect  the  tents  and  camp  equipage,  and  the 
general  police  of  the  regiment,  and  whether  the  men  are  properly  care.d 
for  and  properly  instructed  in  their  duties. 

After  performing  the  services  above  required,  he  will  proceed  to  Wil 
liamsport,  Frederick,  and  Hagerstown,  and  perform  at  each  place  similar 
services  as  required  at  Martinsburgh. 

On  returning,  he  will  call  at  Harper's  Ferry  and  report  to  Colonel 
Miles.  After  which  he  will  inspect  the  several  New  York  regiments 
of  infantry  at  that  post,  where  his  inspections  will  be  similar  to  those 

above  required. 

JOHN  E.  WOOL,  Major-General. 


FORT   FEDERAL    HILL.  275 

HEAD-QUARTERS  MIDDLE  DEPARTMENT, 

BALTIMORE,  MD.,  August  7,  1862. 

COLONEL,  —  In  your  inspections  you  will  require  a  return  of  the  troops 
you  may  inspect,  and  ascertain  those  present,  sick,  detailed,  and  on  extra 
duty,  and  absent,  the  whole  number  of  each  regiment  and  company. 

JOHN  E.  WOOL,  Major-General. 
COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  Seventh  Regiment. 

BALTIMORE.  August  7,  1862. 

COLONEL,  —  The  bearer  will  hand  you  this  note.  He  will  be  able  to 
give  you  some  important  information.  If  you  can  aid  him,  you  will  make 
use  of  the  company  at  Frederick,  or  any  troops  which  may  come  under 
your  inspection. 

Very  truly  yours, 

JOHN  E.  WOOL,  Major-General. 
To  COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  Seventh  Regiment,  Frederick. 

This  duty  was  performed,  and  an  elaborate  report  of  the 
condition  of  the  various  forces  of  the  three  armies,  with 
suggestions  of  changes,  was  made  by 'Colonel  Lefferts  to 
General  Wool. 

In  fine,  with  such  a  multiplicity  of  duties  and  details, 
added  to  the  necessities  of  granting  furloughs  to  men  who 
claimed  them  on  grounds  strongly  appealing  to  justice  and 
sympathy,  and  with  the  fact  that  the  regiment  was  still  fur 
ther  depleted,  as  during  its  first  campaign,  by  members  dis 
charged  to  accept  commissions  in  the  volunteer  army,  it 
will  be  seen  that  its  three  months'  campaign  in  Baltimore 
was  a  busy  as  well  as  a  useful  one,  and  to  be  remembered 
with  pride  and  pleasure  in  its  annals.  "  Detachments,"  says 
the  "  History  of  the  Second  Company,"  "  were  sent  into 
the  surrounding  country  to  arrest  notorious  Secessionists, 
and  one  famous  expedition  was  despatched  to  surprise  a 
Rebel  camp  and  capture  their  vessel,  but  failed  to  find  the 
mythical  conspirators  or  their  phawtom  '  pungay.'  .... 
On  the  26th  of  June,  a  squad,  under  Sergeant  Quilliard,  was 
sent  to  take  charge  of  a  house  from  which  a  secession  flag 
had  been  displayed,  and  to  arrest  its  inmates." 

There  were  also,  of  course,  the  customary  inspections 


276  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

and  reviews,  by  Generals  Wool  and  Morris,  and  many  in 
formal  receptions  of  civil  and  military  visitors,  particularly 
of  officers  passing  through  Baltimore.  General  Burnside, 
returning  from  North  Carolina  to  join  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac,  and  Colonel  Corcoran,  returning  from  his  prison 
in  Richmond,  were  received  with  the  heartiest  enthusiasm. 
After  reviewing  the  regiment,  the  latter  "  addressed  it 
with  an  earnestness  and  eloquence  that  electrified  his  hear 
ers."  As  usual  in  the  United  States  service,  the  fourth 
day  of  July  was  celebrated  to  order,  with  a  national  salute 
of  thirty-four  guns  at  meridian,  fired  by  squads  from  the 
various  companies,  the  rest  of  the  regiment  parading  dur 
ing  the  firing.  The  remainder  of  the  day  was  devoted  to 
amusement,  and  the  regimental  band  helped  dignify  the 
Somewhat  primitive  display  of  fireworks  near  the  fort. 
However,  General  Morris  took  the  precaution  to  order  that 
"  the  bastions  of  the  fort  should  not  be  used  for  any  display 
of  fireworks,  as  proposed  by  the  Common  Council."  The 
news  of  the  result  of  the  Peninsular  campaign  had  caused 
fears  of  an  emeute  in  Baltimore  during  the  day ;  all  passes 
to  the  city  were  interdicted  positively  by  orders  from  head 
quarters,  and  the  regiment  was  ordered  to  be  ready  within 
the  fort,  to  march,  at  short  notice,  to  any  part  of  the  city. 

Camp  sports,  as  in  the  campaign  of  1861,  were  greatly 
resorted  to,  to  offset  camp  duties ;  and  aquatic  sports,  espe 
cially  swimming,  were  of  course  favorites.  The  weather 
was  exceedingly  fine  throughout  the  campaign,  though 
sometimes  very  warm  ;  but  a  gracious  "  General  Order  No. 
5,"  from  General  Morris's  head-quarters,  on  July  7th,  for 
mally  declared  that  "  until  further  orders  the  troops  of  this 
command  will  be  allowed  to  wear  c  straw  hats  '  when  not 
on  dress  duty,  said  hats  to  be  procured  at  the  expense  of 
the  officers  and  men  of  the  command.  Uniformity  in 
shape  and  size  will  be  observed  in  procuring  said  hats." 
For  the  rest,  according  to  the  "  History  of  the  Second  Com- 


FORT    FEDERAL   HILL.  277 

pany,"  "  pure  air,  cool  breezes,  refreshing  showers,  bright 
sunshine  by  day  and  charming  moonlight  by  night,  com 
bined  to  make  life  pleasant,  and  to  preserve  the  health  and 
good  spirits  of  the  men During  the  fine  warm  weath 
er,  swimming  was  a  favorite  amusement.  The  more  expert 
and  adventurous  preferred  the  Patapsco,  and  from  the  docks 
or  vessels  plunged  into  its  deep  waters  ;  others,  less  confi 
dent  in  their  skill,  sought  the  pure  waters  and  sloping 
beach,  and  the  shade  and  greensward  of  the  more  distant 
Spring  Garden.  The  visits  to  Spring  Garden  were  often 
extended  beyond  the  Long  Bridge  to  Ferry  Bar,  where  lovers 
of  aquatic  sports  could  row  or  sail,  and  end  the  amuse 
ments  of  the  afternoon  with  a  splendid  dinner  upon  fish, 
soft  crabs,  boiled  chickens,  and  fresh  fruit  and  vegetables, 
served  in  the  best  style  of  domestic  and  seaside  cookery. 
Not  a  few  patronized  the  bathing-accommodations  within 
the  fort ;  and  in  the  evening,  and  at  a  late  hour  of  the 
night,  large  numbers  might  be  seen  gathered  around  the 
hydrant,  sporting  in  the  large  bathing-tub,  or  refreshing 
themselves  with  artificial  showers  from  the  inexhaustible 
fountain.  The  members  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  will  not 
soon  forget  the  portly  figure  of  Mrs.  Robinson,  the  sutler 
of  the  post,  and  long  may  they  continue  to  sympathize  with 
her  henpecked  husband.  The  renowned  Schillenger  at 
length  reigned  in  her  stead."  The  same  authority  informs 
us  touching  the  police  or  fatigue  duty,  of  which  the  Seventh 
made  something  of  a  specialty  :  — 

"  From  each  company  was  detailed  daily  a  sufficient  num 
ber  of  men,  in  charge  of  a  corporal,  whose  duty  it  was  to 
sweep  the  quarters,  keep  them  neat  and  clean,  and  collect 
and  dispose  of  all  the  papers  and  rubbish  that  chanced  to 
accumulate.  It  was  a  menial  service,  yet  all  in  turn  per 
formed  it ;  and,  armed  with  broom,  sprinkler,  shovel,  and 
wheelbarrow,  the  police  squad  was  marshalled  at  least 
twice  a  day  for  this  necessary  duty.  Its  members  endured 


278  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

patiently  and  cheerfully  the  bad  jokes  which  were  perpetu 
ated  at  their  expense,  with  the  self-satisfying  thought  that 
others  must  endure  the  same  to-morrow ;  and  it  was  not 
uncommon  for  them  to  make  their  unpleasant  duties  a 
source  of  fun  and  amusement.  The  corporal  of  the  police, 
if  witty  (as  corporals  often  are),  marshalled  his  men  with 
all  the  pomp  and  ceremony  of  a  military  parade,  drilled 
them  in  marching  and  in  the  manual  of  arms,  addressed 
them  upon  the  vast  importance  of  their  duties,  and  appealed 
to  them  as  brave  and  patriotic  soldiers  to  act  well  their 
part."  A  very  fine  theatrical  company  was  also  organized 
in  the  regiment,  and  gave  successful  performances. 

As  specimens  ot  some  of  the  other  duties,  beyond  the 
limits  of  the  fort,  already  spoken  of,  I  take  at  random  a  few 
from  very  many  official  orders  and  documents  of  this  date  :  — 

FOKT  FEDERAL  HILL,  BALTIMORE,  August  13,  1862. 
LIEUTENANT-COLONEL  WHIFFLE,  Assistant  Adjutant-General 

SIR,  —  In  compliance  with  Special  Orders  No.  58,  dated  Head 
quarters  Eighth  Army  Corps,  Baltimore,  9th  August,  1862,  I  received 
from  the  Union  Relief  Rooms  a  detachment  of  enlisted  men  (fifty-eight 
in  number)  belonging  to  different  regiments,  and  accompanied  by  my 
detail  of  fifteen  men,  as  required  by  said  order,  proceeded  to  Harrison's 
Landing,  and  turned  over  the  detachment  of  fifty-eight  men  to  the  Pro 
vost-Marshal-General,  whose  receipt  is  herewith  enclosed.  Which  duty 
having  been  performed,  I  returned  with  my  detail  to  this  city,  arriving 
this  morning. 

Very  respectfully, 

WM.  H.  RIBLET, 

Captain  Company  D,  Seventh  Regiment  N.  Y.  N.  G. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  EIGHTH  ARMY  CORPS, 

BALTIMORE,  MD.,  August  24,  1862. 

Colonel  Marshall  Lefferts,  commanding  the  Seventh  Regiment  New 
York  State  Militia,  will  detail  a  non-commissioned  officer  and  five  men 
from  his  command  to  take  charge  of  and  conduct  to  Washington  a  de 
tachment  of  convalescents  now  in  the  Camden  Street  Hospital,  and  in 
condition  to  be  sent  to  their  regiments.  The  non-commissioned  officer 
in  charge  will  ascertain  whether  the  men  belong  to  General  McClellan's 
army  or  the  Army  of  Virginia,  before  leaving,  and  upon  his  arrival  in 
Washington  will  turn  them  over  with  the  accompanying  list  to  Brigadier- 


FORT   FEDERAL   HILL.  279 

General  Wadsworth,  commanding  military  district  of  Washington ;  Lav 
ing  completed  which  duty,  he  will  return  to  this  city  with  his  party. 
Colonel  James  Belger,  A.  D.  C.  and  Quartermaster,  will  furnish  the 
necessary  transportation. 

By  command  of  Major-General  Wool, 

WM.  D.  WHIFFLE,  A.  A.  General. 

(INDORSEMENT.) 

Captain  Haws,  of  Company  C,  will  cause  the  detail  required  by  the 
written  order  to  be  made,  and  the  instructions  to  be  carried  out. 

M.  LEFFERTS,  Colonel  Commanding. 

To  this  summary  of  the  duties  and  pastimes  of  the  three 
months'  garrison  duty  at  Fort  Federal  Hill,  it  only  remains 
to  add  a  word  regarding  the  regiment's  return,  and  some 
events  that  preceded  it.  The  result  of  the  Peninsular  cam 
paign  being  such  as  to  displease  the  military  authorities  at 
Washington,  a  change  in  command  was  made  in  Virginia 
and  at  Washington  ;  and  on  the  22d  of  July  the  War  Depart 
ment  issued  a  General  Order  confirming  the  designation  of 
General  Porter's  corps  as  the  Fifth  Army  Corps,  and  that 
of  General  Franklin  as  the  Sixth,  and  constituting  the  forces 
of  General  Dix  the  Seventh,  "  those  under  Major-Gene ral 
Wool  the  Eighth,"  and  those  of  General  Burnside  as  the 
Ninth  Army  Corps,  respectively.  It  was  in  this  way  that 
the  Seventh  Regiment  became  a  part  of  the  Eighth  Army 
Corps.  The  losses  of  the  army  on  the  Peninsula,  and  the 
threatening  aspect  of  the  war,  induced  the  President,  on  the 
4th  of  August,  1862,  to  call  three  hundred  thousand  mili 
tia  into  the  service  of  the  United  States,  to  serve  for  nine 
months,  unless  sooner  discharged.  So  promptly  was  this 
call  answered,  that,  when  the  time  came  for  the  three 
months'  regiments  to  be  mustered  out,  they  were  dis 
charged,  without  any  movement  to  retain  them. 

The  Seventh,  however,  remained  three  days  longer,  at 
the  special  request  of  General  Wool,  who  was  unwilling 
that  so  important  a  post  should  be  left  by  them  until  well 


280  HISTORY    OF   THE  SEVENTH, REGIMENT. 

provided  for.  Pursuant  to  the  orders  of  the  War  Office, 
the  regiments  in  the  Eighth  Corps  were  mustered  on  the 
morning  of  the  18th  of  August ;  on  the  21st,  an  intimation 
that  the  service  was  drawing  to  a  close  came  in  Special 
Order  No.  70,  from  the  head-quarters  of  the  Eighth  Army 
Corps,  directing"  the  commanders  of  all  regiments  enrolled 
for  three  months,  serving  in  this  army  corps,  and  whose 
term  of  service  has  nearly  expired,"  to  "  cause  the  neces 
sary  muster  and  pay  rolls  to  be  made  out  and  forwarded." 
On  the  24th,  an  order  from  General  Wool  instructed  all  the 
New  York  three  months'  regiments  in  his  command  to  hold 
themselves  in  readiness  to  return  to  that  city,  "  preparatory 
to  their  being  mustered  out  of  the  service  of  the  United 
States." 

It  so  happened  that  the  term  of  the  Seventh  expired  that 
day, — the  24th.  But  at  the  special  request  of  General 
Wool  it  remained  in  service,  at  his  pleasure,  till  such  time 
as  it  could  be  discharged  without  detriment  to  tho  needs  of 
the  Department.  Accordingly,  General  Wool  sent  to 
Governor  Morgan  the  following  letter,  in  his  own  hand, 
which  will  best  explain,  in  a  few  words,  the  importance  of 
the  position  which  the  Seventh  had  occupied,  the  opinion 
entertained  of  its  value  as  a  regiment  by  the  distinguished 
Corps  Commander,  and  its  conduct  in  volunteering  to  serve 
beyond  its  time  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  EIGHTH  ARMY  CORPS. 

BALTIMORE,  August  24,  1862. 
His  EXCELLENCY  E.  D.  MORGAN  Albany. 

The  Seventh  Regiment  New  York  State  Militia  will  leave  this  De 
partment  on  Thursday,  the  28th,  for  New  York,  to  be  mustered  out  of 
service.  Can  you  not  send  me  a  first-rate  regiment  to  take  its  place  in 
the  fort  on  Federal  Hill  ?  It  is  an  important  position  for  the  defence  of 
Baltimore.  The  Seventh  remains  three  days  over  its  time  of  service  at 
my  request.  Please  answer. 

JOHN  E.  WOOL,  Major-General. 

It  is  seen  that  now,  as  in  1861,  the  Seventh,  after  mus- 


FORT    FEDERAL   HILL.  281 

tering  in  voluntarily  for  a  longer  time  than  they  had  agreed, 
willingly  extended  that  longer  time  by  three  days,  for  the 
good  of  the  service. 

On  the  26th,  Colonel  Lefferts  received  a  notification  from 
corps  head-quarters  that  "  the  Major-General  Commanding 
proposes  to  review  your  regiment  to-morrow  evening  at  five 
or  half  past  five  o'clock."  This  review  took  place  in  the 
presence  of  about  three  thousand  persons,  many  of  whom 
were  distinguished  officials,  civil  and  military,  and  ladies  ; 
and,  what  with  the  salutes,  the  review,  the  elaborate  bat 
talion  drill,  the  parade,  the  exceedingly  complimentary  com 
ments  of  General  Wool,  and  the  pleasant  entertainment 
given  by  the  Colonel  to  the  General  and  his  staff,  the 
occasion  was  made  very  enjoyable.  The  Press  despatch, 
in  describing  this  affair,  says  :  — 

"  About  five  o'clock  the  visitors  commenced  arriving,  and  were  cour 
teously  received  by  the  officer  of  the  day.  They  occupied  seats  in  the 
balcony  and  along  the  porches  of  the  barracks  opening  upon  the  parade. 
The  companies,  nine  in  number  (the  Tenth  being  necessarily  absent), 
formed  in  line,  and,  soon  after  the  colors  were  saluted,  the  rolling  drum, 
the  turn-out  of  the  guard,  and  the  discharge  of  cannon,  announced  the 
arrival  of  the  General.  A  detachment  of  gunners  manned  the  batteries 
and  fired  a  salute  of  thirteen  guns  in  honor  of  the  head  of  the  Depart 
ment.  At  the  same  time  the  visitors,  as  well  as  the  military,  who  were 
'  at  rest '  greeted  the  General  with  hearty  cheers. 

"  The  column,  after  going  through  the  manual  of  arms,  passed  out  of 
the  work,  and  for  an  hour  was  drilled  on  Warren  Street.  All  the  move 
ments  (some  by  trumpet  call)  were  most  admirably  executed,  and  were 
applauded  by  the  visitors.  After  the  review  was  over,  General  Wool 
addressed  Colonel  Lefferts,  and  spoke  in  the  most  commendable  terms 
of  the  appearance  and  discipline  of  the  men.  He  said  that  for  many 
years  he  had  been  called  upon  to  review  columns  some  consisting  of 
twenty  thousand  men,  but  he  never  saw  a  regiment  which  executed  the 
various  movements  with  so  much  regularity,  and  accompanied  with  so 
much  animation  and  spirit.  After  the  dismissal  of  the  parade,  the  Gen 
eral  and  staff  were  entertained  by  Colonel  Lefferts  in  the  main  building, 
during  which  time  many  pleasant  things  were  said.  The  Colonel  states 
that  during  their  sojourn  of  three  months  in  Baltimore  they  have  made 


282  HISTORY  OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

many  friends,  that  not  a  single  unpleasant  circumstance  has  occurred, 
and  that  they  will  cherish  many  welcome  reminiscences  during  their 
occupancy  of  the  fort.  It  is  also  gratifying  to  state  that  the  men  leave 
in  good  health,  only  four  of  the  entire  command  (about  eight  hundred 
in  number)  being  reported  unable  to  discharge  duty." 

On  the  2 7 th  the  order  for  relieving  the  Seventh  was  issued, 
the  same  day  was  rescinded,  and  on  the  day  following  was  re 
newed.  On  the  afternoon  of  Thursday  the  28th  of  August, 
a  New  York  regiment,  one  thousand  strong,  marched  into 
the  fort  and  relieved  th  eleventh,  which  was  then  about  eight 
hundred  strong.  This  regiment  was  commanded  by  the  ac 
complished  gentleman  and  devoted  patriot,  Colonel  Peter 
Augustus  Porter,  who  fell  at  Cold  Harbor.  It  was  the  One 
Hundred  and  Twenty-Ninth  New  York,  —  a  fine  body  of 
troops,  who  served  no  less  than  twenty  months  in  the  de 
fences  of  Baltimore,  on  succeeding  the  Fifth  and  the  Sev 
enth  New  York,  and  then,  under  the  name  of  the  Eighth 
New  York  Heavy  Artillery,  over  two  thousand  strong,  ren 
dered  excellent  service  in  Grant's  Virginia  campaign.  Be 
fore  evening  the  Seventh  bade  good  by  to  Federal  Hill, 
and  was  on  its  way,  via  Harrisburg,  to  Easton,  Pennsyl 
vania,  which  place  was  reached  at  5  A.  M.  At  noon  of 
the  29th,  after  a  twenty-four  hours' journey,  it  reached  New 
York,  and  was  received,  as  before,  with  overwhelming  en 
thusiasm  by  thousands  of  people  assembled  on  the  line  of 
march  from  the  pier  to  the  armory.  Their  neat  appear 
ance,  steady  and  soldierly  inarch,  and  sunburnt  faces,  gave 
evidence  of  the  work  they  had  been  doing,  and  the  applause 
of  the  spectators  was  hearty  and  unrestrained.  On  the  5th  •«• 
of  September  the  regiment  was  mustered  out  of  the  United 
States  service  by  Captain  Mott,  after  a  term  of  one  hundred 
and  two  days.  On  the  16th  its  members  received  pay  for 
a  service  of  three  months  and  ten  days. 

It  happened,  that,  during  the  last  days  of  August,  the 
country   was   again   in-  excitement  -over   the   threatening 


FORT   FEDERAL   HILL.  283 

movements  of  the  enemy ;  and  the  National  War  Com 
mittee,  meeting  on  the  2d  of  September  in  the  Chamber 
of  Commerce  rooms,  New  York,  earnestly  urged  the  Wai- 
Bureau  to  "  recall  the  militia  regiments  from  this  city  which 
have  recently  returned";  adding,  "We  believe  they  will  go 
at  a  moment's  notice."  General  Halleck  curtly  answered : 
"  The  New  York  militia  regiments  were  requested  to  re 
main  when  the  danger  was  more  imminent  than  at  present, 
but  declined  to  do  so.  Under  these  circumstances  they 
will  not  be  recalled."  A  statement  so  utterly  unfounded 
in  fact,  so  unjust,  and  so  ungrateful,  brought  out  a  sharp 
reply  from  Colonel  Lefferts,  published  in  the  various  news 
papers  of  New  York,  and  similar  remonstrances  from  Lieu 
tenant-Colonel  Aspinwall  of  the  Twenty-Second,  Colonel 
Varian  of  the  Eighth,  and  various  officers  of  the  Thirty- 
Seventh,  Sixty-Ninth,  Seventy-First,  and  the  other  regiments 
which  had  returned.  These  officers  showed  that  their  men 
would  have  gladly  stayed,  had  their  services  been  required, 
and  some  of  them,  like  the  Seventh,  did  stay  several  days 
beyond  their  term ;  but  no  such  request  as  that  alleged  by 
General  Halleck  was  ever  made.  The  following  was  the 
letter  from  Colonel  Lefferts,  vindicating  his  regiment :  — 

"  A  telegraphic  correspondence  between  the  National  War  Committee 
and  Major-General  Halleck,  published  this  morning,  charges  the  regi 
ments  of  the  New  York  State  Militia  with  refusing  to  remain  in  the 
field  when  asked  to  do  so.  General  Halleck  goes  further,  and  states 
that  the  danger  was  then  '  imminent,  and,  as  they  then  refused,  they  will 
not  now  be  recalled.' 

"  I  feel  that  justice  to  the  soldiers  of  my  command  requires  that  I 
should  publicly  deny  the  statement  in  so  far  as  it  relates  to  my  regiment. 
The  others  will  answer  for  themselves.  I  entertain  a  high  regard  and 
personal  respect  for  the  Commander-in-Chief,  and  feel  that  some  blunder 
has  been  committed,  causing  him,  perhaps  quite  innocently,  to  state  what 
was  not  true,  and  what  was  ungenerous  and  unkind  to  those  who  have 
endeavored  to  do  their  duty.  Many  a  soldier's  honor  will  smart  under 
the  charge  that  they  refused  to  remain  when  asked  to  do  so,  at  a  time 
when  there  was  danger ;  and  I  most  distinctly  state  that  no  such  request 


284  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

was  made,  directly  or  indirectly,  of  me  or  of  my  regiment.  Had  it  been 
made,  I  have  no  doubt  it  would  have  been  promptly  and  willingly  met. 
On  two  occasions  when  a  dark  cloud  was  hanging  over  our  fair  institu 
tions,  and  the  government  called  for  troops,  the  Seventh  Regiment 
marched  at  once,  without  regard  to  personal  sacrifice,  at  the  call.  Let 
it  be  borne  in  mind  that  in  both  cases  the  service  on  the  part  of  the 
regiment  was  voluntary,  and  it  would  not  be  likely  to  refuse  its  services 
under  the  circumstances  stated.  It  will  be  seen  from  the  following  that 
the  regiment  was  in  no  hurry  to  leave  :  — 

EIGHTH  ARMY  CORPS,  HEAD-QUARTERS  MIDDLE  DEPARTMENT, 

BALTIMORE,  August  24,  1862. 
His  EXCELLENCY  E.  D.  MORGAN,  Albany. 

The  Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  State  Militia,  will  leave  this  on 
Thursday,  28th,  for  New  York,  to  be  mustered  out  of  the  service.  Can 
you  not  send  me  a  first-rate  regiment  to  take  its  place  in  the  fort  on 
Federal  Hill  ?  It  is  an  important  position  for  the  defence  of  Baltimore. 
The  Seventh  remains  three  days  over  its  term  of  service,  at  my  request 

JOHN  E.  WOOL,  Major-General. 

SPECIAL   ORDERS   No.  76. 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  MIDDLE  DEPARTMENT, 

BALTIMORE,  August  27,  1862. 

The  Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  State  Militia,  will  be  relieved  from 
duty  in  this  department  to-morrow  morning,  and,  under  the  command 
of  Colonel  Lefferts,  will  proceed  to  the  city  of  New  York;  when  it  will 
be  mustered  out  of  the  service  of  the  United  States. 

Colonel  Porter,  One  Hundred  and  Twenty-Ninth  Regiment  New  York 
Volunteers,  now  at  Camp  Belger,  will  march  into  and  occupy  Fort 
Federal  Hill  as  the  Seventh  Regiment  march  out. 

By  command  of  Major-General  Wool, 

W.  D.  WHIPPLE,  Assistant  Adjutant-General. 

I  will  now  take  occasion  to  state,  that,  when  the  regiment  left  for 
Washington,  in  May  last,  a  letter  from  the  Adjutant-General  to  the 
Honorable  Secretary  of  War  informed  him  that  our  term  of  service  was 
only  for  thirty  days.  I  saw  Mr.  Stanton  before  the  thirty  days  were 
up,  and  he  represented  to  me  that  the  government  was  desirous  that  the 
regiment  should  be  mustered  into  service  for  three  months,  giving  his 
reasons  for  the  request.  I  returned  to  Baltimore  and  represented  to  the 
members  of  the  regiment  what  the  Secretary  had  requested,  and  they 
immediately  and  without  hesitation  voted  to  remain  three  months.  I 
appeal  to  those  who  have  charge  of  the  destiny  of  our  country,  whether 


FORT    FEDERAL   HILL.  285 

this  is  the  best  way  to  secure  soldiers  or  unite  indissolubly  the  varied 
interests  of  our  people. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS. 

Colonel  Commanding  Seventh  Regiment. 
NEW  YORK,  September  4,  1862. 

These  remonstrances  being  brought  to  the  notice  of  Gen 
eral  Halleck,  that  officer  sent  an  acknowledgment  of  the 
"error"  into  which  he  had  fallen.  "I  now  learn,"  he 
wrote  on  the  8th  to  Mr.  W.  H.  Aspinwall,  "  that  an  order 
had  been  previously  issued,  without  the  knowledge  of  the 
Secretary  of  War  or  of  myself,  to  send  these  troops  back  to 
New  York  at  the  end  of  their  enlistment.  When  I  tele 
graphed  the  New  York  committee,  I  supposed  the  regiments 
had,  while  here,  declined  to  remain,  but  on  their  arrival  in 
New  York  had  offered  to  return.  In  this  I  was  in  error, 
and  my  telegram  was  calculated  to  do  them  injustice. 
Please  explain  this  to  them.  H.  W.  HALLECK,  General-in- 
Chief." 

But  though  it  did  not  return  to  the  front,  the  service 
of  the  Seventh  was  not  jet  finished.  A  few  days  after  the 
return,  the  Spinola  Brigade,  then  recruiting  for  the  war, 
broke  out  into  a  mutiny  at  its  camp  at  East  New  York,  — 
a  mutiny  partly  due  to  the  incompetency  of  many  of  its  offi 
cers  and  the  want  of  discipline  among  its  men,  but  more 
immediately  to  the  non-payment  of  a  promised  bounty. 
Drunk  and  disorderly,  the  dissatisfied  soldiers  defied  and 
insulted  their  officers,  who  applied  to  have  a  trustworthy 
regiment  sent  them  for  guard,  whom  the  rioters  would  fear. 
Brigadier-General  Hall,  commanding  the  First  Division,  on 
the  llth  of  September  directed  Colonel  Lcffcrts  to  detail 
five  companies  of  his  command,  with  the  necessary  camp 
equipage,  to  report  to  General  Spinola  at  his  camp  by  noon 
of  the  12th  (Friday),  for  ten  days'  service,  unless  sooner 
relieved.  Companies  H,  B,  F,  G,  and  I  were  accordingly 
detailed  for  this  purpose,  and  were  assembled  at  ten  o'clock 
of  Friday,  the  12th,  at  the  armory,  armed  and  equipped, 


286  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH    REGIMENT. 

and  were  there  supplied  with  twenty  rounds  per  man.  The 
battalion  was  put  under  command  of  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Price,  and  proceeded  at  noon  to  the  camp,  —  the  old  famil 
iar  drill-ground  at  East  New  York.  The  day  following,  the 
other  five  companies  were  held  in  readiness  to  move  in 
support. 

The  condition  of  the  camp  in  which  the  mutiny  occurred, 
at  the  time  the  Seventh  Regiment  was  called  upon,  may  be 
best  pictured,  probably,  by  quoting  a  sm'all  part  of  the 
account  given  by  the  New  York  Express,  as  follows :  — 

"ANOTHER  MUTINY  IN  THE  SPINOLA  BRIGADE  AT  EAST  NEW 
YORK.  —  THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT,  NATIONAL  GUARD,  ORDERED 
OUT,  WITH  TWENTY  ROUNDS  OF  BALL  CARTRIDGES —  The  Spinola 
Brigade  has  distinguished  itself  by  another  riot,  and  a  sweeping  ske 
daddle  from  camp.  The  last  mutiny  in  which  it  engaged  is  still  in  the 
remembrance  of  the  public,  especially  the  residents  of  East  New  York, 
—  the  rendezvous  of  the  troops,  —  where  they  have  been  a  terror  to 
peaceable  citizens.  Many  of  the  prominent  leaders  in  the  recent  riot 
had  been  removed  from  the  camp,  preparatory  to  being  court-martialed, 
but  several  remained,  and  used  every  disadvantageous  circumstance  to 
demoralize  the  brigade. 

"  Yesterday,  the  second  riot  in  the  brigade  occurred,  the  men  having 
been  previously  prepared  for  it  by  intoxication.  The  cause  of  the  mu 
tiny  is  said  to  be  the  payment  of  bounty  money  only  to  recruits  who 
have  recently  enlisted,  thus  shutting  out  others  from  the  reward.  The 
War  Committee  of  Queen's  County  have  awarded  sixty  dollars  to  all 
recruits  who  have  enlisted  within  the  last  few  days.  This  action  re 
sulted  in  hundreds  of  men  joining  the  regiments  composing  the  brigade. 
The  bounty  was  paid  them,  and  they  secured,  it  is  stated,  leave  of  ab 
sence.  They  improved  the  indulgence  by  spending  the  money  in  the 
drinking-saloons  in  the  neighborhood  of  the  camp  and  throughout  Wil- 
liamsburgh  and  Brooklyn ;  and  subsequently  returned  to  the  rendezvous 
drunk,  disorderly,  and  insolent.  Those  in  camp  who  were  not  so  for 
tunate  as  to  receive  the  bounty  became  disaffected,  and  in  some  in 
stances  the  moneyed  soldiers  were  challenged  to  fight.  Encounters 
throughout  the  day  were  common,  and  the  officers  generally  seemed  to 
have  lost  all  control  of  their  men.  The  demoralization  of  the  brigade 
will  appear  thorough  and  complete,  when  it  is  known,  as  stated  by  one 
of  the  men,  that  out  of  three  thousand  and  eight  men  who  took  part  in 


FORT   FEDERAL  HILL.  287 

a  dress-parade  on  Sunday  last,  not  more  than  half  that  number  were 
present  in  camp  yesterday. 

"  At  noon,  on  Thursday,  the  riot  began  to  culminate.  Some  of  the 
officers  were  hooted  at  by  the  men  in  the  tents.  At  one  time  in  the  day 
the  soldiers  conspired  to  have  a  general  skedaddle,  and  some  of  them 
escaped.  They  continued,  however,  to  run  in  and  out  through  the 
camp,  and  seemed  to  defy  restraint.  In  this  manner  the  men  spent 
the  day  and  night  yesterday. 

"  In  anticipation  of  a  greater  mutiny  and  a  complete  assault  on  the 
officers,  it  was  determined  to  have  a  proper  military  force  to  guard  the 
men,  and,  if  necessary,  shoot  down  a  few  to  strike  terror,  if  not  discipline, 
in  the  rest.  A  requisition  for  troops  was  then  made,  and  Colonel  Lef- 
,ferts,  in  obedience  to  an  order  of  General  Hall,  ordered  five  companies 
of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  National  Guard,  to  proceed  to  East  New 
York.  The  companies  arrived  armed  and  equipped,  with  one  day's 
rations,  and  were  supplied  with  twenty  rounds  of  ball  cartridges.  They 
proceeded  to  East  New  York,  via  the  Grand  Street  (Williamsburgh) 
Ferry  at  noon. 

"  It  is  expected  that  they  will  meet  with  considerable  opposition,  but 
it  will  be  perceived  by  the  above  arrangements  that  they  are  prepared 
for  all  emergencies." 

Lieutenant-Colonel  Price's  detachment  found,  however, 
that  the  drenching  rain-storm  in  which  it  marched  over  to 
East  New  York  had  apparently  sobered  the  drunk  and 
dampened  the  spirits  of  the  disorderly.  A  disagreeable 
tour  of  guard  duty,  and  sleep  on  the  wet  ground  and  in  wet 
clothing  and  blankets,  were  the  most  unpromising  features 
of  the  night.  The  week's  hard  guard  duty  which  followed, 
though  sometimes  rendered  exciting  by  attempts  to  desert, 
was  mainly  monotonous.  For  the  rest,  the  following  re 
port  of  Colonel  Price  will  sufficiently  tell  the  story  of  the 
tour  of  duty  at  East  New  York  :  — 

NEW  YORK,  October  7,  1862. 

COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Command'g  Seventh  Reg't  N.  Y.  N.  G. 
COLONEL,  —  In  accordance  with  your  instructions,  I  proceeded,  on  the 
12th  ultimo,  to  East  New  York  (for  special  guard  duty  at  brigade  en 
campment)  with  Companies  B,  F,  G,  H,  and  I  of  the  Seventh  Regi 
ment,  and  reported  to  Brigadier-General  F.  B.  Spinola,  at  half  past  five, 


288  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

p.  M.,  on  that  day,  on  the  camp-ground ;  my  total  number  being  two 
hundred  and  twenty-two. 

General  Spinola  was  very  anxious  that  I  should  furnish  at  least  one 
hundred  and  twenty-five  posts,  and  also  desirous  to  withdraw  his  own 
guard  (which  he  stated  was  not  to  be  relied  on)  ;  but  upon  my  showing 
him  it  would  be  impossible  to  furnish  more  than  fifty  posts  with  the 
force  under  my  command,  he  left  the  matter  entirely  to  my  discretion, 
and,  as  usual,  returned  to  the  city.  Upon  consultation  with  Adjutant 
Boker  of  the  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-Second  New  York  Volunteers 
(one  of  the  four  regiments  composing  the  brigade),  I  decided  to  post,  as 
an  exterior  guard,  fifteen  men  round  the  camp  of  the  First  Regiment, 
fifteen  men  round  the  camp  of  the  Fourth,  and  twenty  men  round  the 
barracks  where  the  Second  and  Third  Regiments  were  quartered.  Our 
guard  were  furnished  with  a  countersign,  while  their  guard  was  not. 
The  countersign  for  the  night  of  the  12th  was  "  Leflferts."  During  the 
evening,  three  detachments,  under  Lieutenants  Spicer  and  Ryder  and 
Sergeant v  reported  to  me,  —  in  all  about  fifty  men. 

On  the  morning  of  the  1 3th,  under  the  direction  of  the  Quartermaster 
and  Adjutant,  our  camp  was  laid  out,  and  tents  for  five  companies 
pitched  midway  between  the  barracks  and  the  camp  of  the  Fourth  Regi 
ment.  We  spent  the  night  of  the  1 2th  in  the  tents  pitched  for  the 
Second  Regiment,  and  vacated  them  about  noon  (before  our  own  tents 
were  all  up),  the  Second  Regiment  having  vacated  the  barracks  ready 
to  occupy  their  own  camp. 

A  timely  arrival  of  seventy-five  rank  and  file  under  Lieutenant  Lord, 
of  Company  K,  at  6  o'clock  on  the  afternoon  of  the  1 3th,  enabled  the 
Adjutant  to  turn  off  the  guard  without  calling  upon  any  of  the  previous 
guard  for  a  second  tour  of  duty.  During  the  evening,  Lieutenant 
Seward  and  Lieutenant  Meday  reported  for  duty. 

I  have  to  report,  that  Drum-Major  Graham  left  the  camp  on  the  even 
ing  of  the  13th,  after  having  been  refused  permission  to  absent  him 
self,  and  did  not  make  his  appearance  during  the  time  I  was  in  command. 

I  have  also  to  report,  that  liquor  was  openly  sold  inside  our  lines,  as 
I  believe,  and  was  informed,  by  permission  of  the  Commanding  General. 
Upon  my  reporting  to  him  the  fact  of  liquor  being  sold  within  the  line 
of  sentries,  he  professed  to  be  amazed,  and  said  the  practice  must  and 
should  be  abated.  Finding  that  liquor  was  still  openly  sold,  1  directed 
the  officer  of  the  day  (Captain  Clark,  Company  B),  by  an  order  in 
writing,  to  notify  the  principal  or  the  assistants  of  the  main  drinking- 
establishment  (on  one  corner  of  the  barracks)  to  close  up  said  estab 
lishment  within  fifteen  minutes  after  the  receipt  of  the  order,  otherwise 
to  arrest  both  principal  and  assistants,  and  have  the  guard  close  up  said 


FORT   FEDERAL   HILL.  289 

place.  The  principal  immediately  closed  up  the  dram-shop  (remarking 
that  he  had  the  permission  of  General  Spinola  to  keep  it  open),  and  it 
remained  closed,  as  I  am  informed,  until  the  afternoon  of  said  day  (Sun 
day,  14th  September),  when  General  Spinola  ordered  and  directed  the 
establishment  to  be  opened  and  remain  open. 

Upon  inspection  parade,  at  9,  A.  M.,  on-  Sunday  the  14th,  there  were 
present  and  on  guard  a  grand  total  of  three  hundred  and  seventy-one 
rank  and  file,  drummers,  non-commissioned  officers,  and  officers;  but 
in  this  number  were  included  very  strong  representations  of  Companies 
A,  C,  D,  E,  and  K.  At  this  parade  I  directed  the  officers  in  command 
of  companies  and  detachments  to  report  to  me  the  names  and  resi 
dences  of  members  absent  without  leave,  and  also  the  names  and  resi 
dences  of  members  who  had  not  up  to  that  time  made  their  appearance 
upon  the  ground.  Before  such  reports  could  be  received  by  the  Adju 
tant,  your  order,  directing  Major  Nevers  to  relieve  me  of  the  command 
of  the  detachment,  was  received.  I  immediately  turned  over  the  com 
mand  to  the  Major;  furnishing  him  with  copies  of  all  orders  issued  by 
me,  as  well  as  the  original  order  from  the  acting  Major- General,  and 
such  information  as  he  desired.  In  response  to  my  call  upon  the 
Adjutant  for  the  returns  I  directed  to  be  made  to  me,  he  informed  me 
"  that  partial  returns  were  made  upon  little  slips  of  paper,  and  they 
had  all  been  mislaid  or  lost."  I  at  once  called  upon  the  captains  of  the 
first  five  companies  for  their  reports  in  detail,  and  only  yesterday  re 
ceived  the  last  report.  I  append  hereto  said  reports  of  Companies  B, 
F,  G,  H,  and  I,  which  in  substance  are  as  follows :  absent  without 
leave,  14  (Company  I,  12;  Company  F,  2).  I  have  no  doubt  that 
others  were  absent  from  Companies  B,  G,  and  H,  but  they  are  not  so 
reported.  Not  present  at  all  at  East  New  York,  Company  B,  15  ;  Com 
pany  F,  15;  Company  G,  36;  Company  H,  51  ;  Company  I,  17.  To 
tal,  134. 

All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted, 

JAMES  PRICE, 

Lieut.- Colonel  Commanding  Detachment  Seventh  Reg't. 

The  truth  is,  that,  while  it  was  undoubtedly  an  honor  to 
the  regiment  to  be  the  first  called  upon  in  an  emergency  of 
this  kind,  yet  it  was  an  honor  somewhat  familiar  in  its  long 
historic  experience  with  riots,  and  one  that  could  not  com 
pensate  for  the  disagreeable  features  of  the  duty.  It  was 
an  ungracious  task,  and  was  so  felt  to  be  by  the  regiment, 
for  militia  to  be  employed  in  guarding  volunteers  ;  and  the 

19 


290  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

special  circumstances  of  the  case  made  the  duty  doubly  dis 
agreeable.  Besides,  following  so  close  on  the  heels  of  a 
prolonged  tour  of  duty  at  the  South,  it  did  not  awaken  that 
sort  of  interest  it  might  otherwise  have  done.  At  best,  it 
was  felt  to  be  a  sorry  afterpiece  to  the  duty  at  Federal  Hill ; 
and  hence,  though  it  continued  for  a  week,  when  the  Seventh 
Regiment  was  relieved  by  the  Twenty-Second,  it  is  better  to 
consider  that  the  Seventh's  campaign  of  1862  ended  with 
the  2d  of  September. 

On  the  6th  of  September,  the  Governor  issued  an  order 
of  thanks,  through  the  Adjutant-General's  office,  to  the 
returned  militia  of  the  State.  "  The  Commander-in-Chief," 
it  said,  "  avails  himself  of  the  occasion  of  the  return  of  the 
Seventh,  Eighth,  Eleventh,  Twelfth,  Thirteenth,  Nineteenth, 
Twenty-Second,  Twenty-Fifth,  Thirty-Seventh,  Forty-Sev 
enth,  and  Sixty-Ninth  Regiments  of  the  National  Guard  to 
the  State  of  New  York,  to  thank  them  for  the  services  they 
have  rendered  to  the  country,  and  for  the  honor  they  have 
reflected  on  the  State.  Summoned  the  second  time  in 
thirteen  months  by  a  sudden  and  urgent  call  to  the  aid  of 
the  general  government,  they  consented  cheerfully  to  the 
sacrifice  of  private  interests,  and  abandoned,  at  almost  a 
moment's  notice,  all  private  occupations,  to  hasten  to  the 
defence  of  the  national  capital,  then  in  danger.  Habituated 
to  the  comforts  and  enjoyments  of  wealthy  and  peaceful 
communities,  they  have,  during  their  prolonged  absence 
from  their  homes,  submitted  without  a  murmur  to  the 
hardships,  the  privations,  and  to  the  labors  of  the  life  of  a 
soldier,  and  they  have  discharged  with  fidelity  and  alacrity 
every  duty  they  were  called  to  perform,  and  have  stood 
ready  to  encounter  every  danger  they  might  be  called  upon 
to  meet.  Their  conduct  has  entitled  them  to  the  thanks  of 
the  government  they  were  summoned  to  defend,  and  has 
won  for  them  tlje  gratitude  arid  confidence  of  the  people. 
It  gives  assurance  that,  notwithstanding  the  vast  army  of 


FORT   FEDERAL   HILL.  291 

volunteers  the  State  of  New  York  has  sent  to  the  defence 
of  the  Union,  she  has  her  National  Guards  always  at  her 
command,  ready  now,  as  heretofore,  to  respond  to  any  call 
that  may  be  made  on  it  by  the  general  government,  and 
able  at  the  same  time  to  preserve  the  peace,  maintain  the 
rights,  and  defend  the  liberties  of  her  own  people,  and  from 
whatever  form  or  whatever  quarter  they  may  be  assailed." 

The  regiment  had  now,  in  the  summer  and  autumn, 
reached  its  highest  degree  of  discipline  and  soldierly  excel 
lence.  Its  brief  campaign  in  1861,  its  one  hundred  days' 
campaign  in  1862,  both  in  actual  service,  had  given  it  an 
experience  which  nothing  in  its  previous  history  had  fur 
nished.  It  was  higher  than  ever  in  prestige,  its  ranks  were 
full,  its  condition  admirable,  its  enthusiasm  very  great.  It 
was  therefore  with  great  confidence  that  Colonel  LefTerts, 
on  the  occasion  of  the  annual  Washington's  birthday  parade, 
.in  1863,  invited,  amongst  other  distinguished  officers,  Major- 
General  George  B.  McClellan  to  review  the  regiment.  "  We 
should  esteem  it  a  high  honor,"  he  wrote  to  that  officer, 
"  if  you  would  review  the  regiment  on  that  day,  at  such 
hour  and  place,  during  the  afternoon,  as  may  be  agreeable 
to  you."  To  this  invitation  the  General  answered  as  fol 
lows  :  — 

NEW  YORK,  February  19,  1863,  22  WEST  Slsx  STREET. 
COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Command 'g  Seventh  Reg't  N.  Y.  S.  N.G. 

COLONEL,  —  I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your 
very  kind  letter  of  the  18th. 

I  regret  exceedingly  that  my  engagements  will  not  permit  me  to  do 
myself  the  honor  of  reviewing  your  splendid  regiment  on  the  day  in 
question. 

While  offering  my  thanks  for  the  compliment  you  have  paid  me,  per 
mit  me  to  express  my  great  admiration  for  a  regiment  which  has  furnished 
so  many  excellent  officers  to  our  army,  and  which  has  so  often  shown  it 
self  ready  to  sacrifice  everything  in  the  service  of  the  country. 

I  am,  Colonel,  very  respectfully  your  obedient  servant, 

GEO.  B.  MCCLELLAN,  Major-General. 


292 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


CHAPTER    XVI. 


THE   MARYLAND    CAMPAIGN    OF   1863. 

UMMER  of  1863,  which  so 
gloriously  culminated  in  the 
twin  victories  of  Yicksburg 
and  Gettysburg,  dawned  fore 
boding  to  the  Union  arms. 
The  repeated  checks  expe 
rienced  by  General  Grant 
before  Vicksburg  had  begot 
ten  a  distrust  of  his  sixth 
attempt,  now  under  way. 
In  Virginia,  five  army  com 
manders  —  McDowell,  Mc- 
Clellan,  Pope,  Burnside,  and 
Hooker  —  had  in  turn  been 
overthrown.  A  great  de 
feat  had  just  been  endured 
at  Chancellorsville, —  a  de 
feat  made  the  sorer  by  the 
hopes  wherewith  battle  had  been  joined. 

At  this  juncture  a  new  terror  loomed  in  the  eastern 
horizon.  Lee,  inspired  by  his  recent  victory,  and  heading 
a  numerous  army,  swept  down  the  Shenandoah  Valley, 
crossed  the  Potomac,  and,  before  the  stupefied  North  shook 
off  its  amaze,  his  vanguard  bivouacked  among  the  aban 
doned  farms  of  Pennsylvania. 

The  wild  cry  that  came  from  the  latter  State  was  hardly 


THE   MARYLAND   CAMPAIGN   OF   1863.  293 

needed  to  arouse  the  militia  of  New  York  and  New  Jersey. 
As  audacious  now  as  hitherto  he  had  been  wary,  the  Con 
federate  commander  had  transferred  the  seat  of  war  from 
Virginia  to  the  North.  His  army,  seventy  thousand 
strong,  was  not  only  equal  in  effective  numbers  to  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac,  but  was  at  its  highest  mettle.  On 
the  other  hand,  the  Union  Army,  which  had  lost  thirty  thou 
sand  men  in  two  battles,  was  losing  thousands  more  each 
day  by  expiration  of  service,  and  was  now  subjected  to 
another  change  of  commanders.  It  was  clear  at  a  glance, 
that,  without  instant  check,  the  Confederate  General  would 
pass  the  Susquehanna,  capture  Washington,  Baltimore,  and 
Philadelphia,  and  dictate  terms  of  peace  on  Northern  soil. 
Or,  at  best,  he  would  effect  such  a  lodgement  on  that  soil  as 
would  secure  for  his  government  the  decisive  advantage  of 
foreign  recognition. 

Such  was  the  crisis  which  summoned  the  militia  of  the 
North  for  the  third  time  to  the  front,  and  such  the  crisis  in 
which  the  Seventh  marched,  as  ever,  leading  the  van  from 
New  York. 

To  Milroy,  who,  with  head-quarters  at  Winchester,  com 
manded  a  force  of  ten  thousand  men,  about  two  thirds  ef 
fectives,  had  been  committed  the  charge  of  the  Shenan- 
doah  Valley.  The  initial  step  in  Lee's  scheme  of  invasion 
was  to  manoeuvre  Hooker  from  the  Rappahanuock  by  turn 
ing  his  right  in  the  country  lying  east  of  the  Blue  Ridge. 
Milroy  had  just  force  enough  to  be  despised  as  resistance 
and  coveted  in  capture.  The  14th  of  June,  at  nightfall, 
Ewell  appeared  in  force  before  Winchester,  and  next  day 
annihilated  Milroy,  taking  four  thousand  prisoners,  twenty- 
eight  guns,  and  much  spoil.  Hooker  was  already  rapidly 
retrograding  from  the  Rappahannock ;  the  Shenandoah 
avenue  was  clear  for  Lee's  columns  ;  the  War  Depart 
ment  had  hurriedly  divided  Pennsylvania  (to  help  mat 
ters)  into  two  military  departments  ;  Governor  Curtin  had 


294  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

called  —  nay,  shrieked  —  for  the  Pennsylvania  militia  to 
come  forward,  and  his  call  had  fallen  mainly  on  deaf 
ears ;  when,  on  the  15th  of  June,  the  President,  im 
pressed  with  the  magnitude  of  the  crisis,  summoned  the 
nearest  States,  West  Virginia,  Maryland,  Pennsylvania 
and  Ohio,  to  furnish  100,000  militia  forthwith,  —  West 
Virginia,  10,000  ;  Maryland,  10,000  ;  Pennsylvania,  50,000  ; 
Ohio,  80,000. 

But,  doubting  (and  with  justice,  as  events  proved) 
whether  these  100,000  would  be  forthcoming  in  States  like 
Pennsylvania  and  Ohio,  where,  at  that  time  as  now,  the 
militia  system  was  much  neglected,  Secretary  Stanton 
simultaneously  appealed  to  New  York  for  20,000  men,  or 
less,  to  be  hurried  forward.  This  was  a  private  appeal ; 
but  it  received  a  response  as  prompt  as  an  order ;  and  it  is 
a  matter  of  history,  that,  in  this  dark  hour  before  the  dawn, 
New  York  furnished  more  troops  upon  her  voluntary  quota 
than  any  of  her  sister  States  appealed  to  in  the  President's 
original  order. 

On  the  loth  of  June,  simultaneously  with  the  President's 
call,  Secretary  Stanton  telegraphed  as  follows  to  Governor 
Seymour :  — 

WASHINGTON,  June  15,  1863. 
To  HIS  EXCELLENCY  GOVERNOR  SEYMOUR,  Albany. 

The  movements  of  the  Rebel  forces  in  Virginia  are  now  sufficiently 
developed  to  show  that  General  Lee,  with  his  whole  army,  is  moving 
forward  to  invade  Maryland,  Pennsylvania,  and  other  States.  The 
President,  to  repel  this  invasion  promptly,  has  called  upon  Ohio,  Penn 
sylvania,  Maryland,  and  Western  Virginia  for  one  hundred  thousand 
militia  for  six  months  unless  sooner  discharged.  It  is  important  to  have 
the  largest  possible  force  in  the  least  time ;  and  if  other  States  would 
furnish  militia  for  a  short  term,  to  be  credited  on  the  draft,  it  would 
greatly  advance  the  object.  Will  you  please  inform  me  immediately  if 
in  answer  to  a  special  call  of  the  President  you  can  raise  and  forward, 
say  twenty  thousand  militia  or  volunteers,  without  bounty,  to  be  credited 
in  the  draft  of  your  State,  or  what  number  you  can  probably  raise  ? 

E.  M.  STANTON,  Secretary  of  War. 


THE  MARYLAND   CAMPAIGN   OF   1863.  295 

Governor  Seymour  replied  as  follows  :  — 

ALBANY,  June  15. 
HON.  EDWIN  M.  STANTON,  Secretary  of  War. 

I  will  spare  no  effort  to  send  you  troops  at  once.     I  have  sent  orders 

to  the  militia  officers  of  the  State. 

HORATIO  SEYMOUR. 

And,  in  fact,  as  the  wires  conveyed  this  despatch,  they 
carried  also  stirring  appeals  and  orders  for  immediate 
march  from  Governor  Seymour  to  all  the  available  regi 
ments  in  the  State.  Here,  for  example,  is  the  despatch  sent 
to  the  Second  Division  head-quarters  at  Brooklyn  :  — 

ALBANY,  June  15. 
MAJOR-GENERAL  H.  B.  DURYEE,  Brooklyn. 

How  many  men  from  your  division  can  be  sent  immediately  for  defence 
of  Washington  and  vicinity,  to  serve  for  six  months,  they  receiving  the 
State  bounty,  and  to  apply  on  the  draft  ?  Answer  at  once.  The  Gov 
ernor  desires  you  will  report  here  this  evening  in  person. 

J.  B.  STONEHOUSE,  A.  A.  A.  G. 

The  next  day,  Mr.  H.  H.  Ward,  manager  of  the  tele 
graph  office,  telegraphed  to  Colonel  Lefferts,  then  at  Rye : 
"  A  reply  from  Stanton  to  Governor  Seymour  returns  thanks, 
and  thinks  a  strong  movement  of  city  regiments  would  be 
encouraging."  And  the  following  request,  in  fact,  w^as  sent 
to  General  Sanford  for  the  use  of  the  city  regiments  in 
Pennsylvania :  — 

WASHINGTON,  June  16, 1863. 
MAJOR-GENERAL  SANFORD,  Albany. 

The  government  will  be  glad  to  have  your  city  regiments  hasten  to 
Pennsylvania  for  a  term  of  service.  It  is  not  "possible  to  say  how  long 
they  might  be  useful,  but  it  is  not  expected  that  they  would  be  detained 
more  than  three  months,  possibly  not  longer  than  twenty  or  thirty  days. 
They  would  be  accepted  for  three  months,  and  discharged  as  soon  as  the 
present  exigency  is  over.  If  aided  at  the  present  by  your  troops,  the 
people  of  that  State  ought  soon  to  be  able  to  raise  a  sufficient  force  to 
relieve  your  city  regiments. 

EDWIN  M.  STANTON,  Secretary  of  War. 

The  first  telegram  from  Albany  for  help,  meanwhile,  had 


296  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

coine,  as  usual,  to  the  Seventh  Regiment.     It  was  directed 
to  Colonel  Lefferts,  and  ran  as  follows  :  — 

ALBANY,  June  15,  1863,  7.15  p.  M. 
COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Seventh  Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  G. 

The  Governor  desires  to  know  immediately  how  soon  the  Seventh 
Regiment  can  be  in  readiness  to  move  to  Philadelphia.  Cannot  the 
Seventh  be  the  first  regiment  ? 

J.  B.  STONEHOUSE, 

Acting  Assistant  Adjutant-General. 

Colonel  Lefferts,  who  chanced  to  be  absent  from  the  city, 
at  Rye,  that  evening,  did  not  receive  this  despatch  until  the 
next  morning  at  ten  o'clock,  when  he  answered  at  once, 
and  directly  to  the  point,  "  I  can  move  with  my  regiment 
this  evening- "  ;  adding  a  request  to  know  definitely  the 
length  of  service  proposed,  "  in  order  to  carry  a  full  com 
plement  of  men."  Within  an  hour  came  the  Governor's 
reply  in  the  shape  of  a  formal  order  to  "  proceed  forthwith 
with  your  regiment,  as  full  as  possible,  to  Harrisburg, 
Pennsylvania,  and  report  to  Major-General  Couch."  The 
following  is  the  text  of  the  marching  orders :  — 

ALBANY,  June  16,  1863. 
COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Seventh  Regiment. 

The  Governor  directs  that  you  proceed  forthwith  with  your  regiment 
as  full  as  possible  to  Harrisburg,  Pennsylvania,  and  report  to  Major- 
General  Couch.  They  volunteer  for  a  term  not  to  exceed  three  months' 
service  ;  most  likely  not  more  than  thirty  days'  will  be  required.  Requi 
sition  for  transportation  will  be  made  upon  Major  Van  Vliet,  No.  6 
State  Street,  and  for  subsistence  upon  Colonel  A.  B.  Eaton,  7  State 

Street. 

JNO.  T.  SPRAGUE,  Adjutant-General. 

These  orders  were  not  —  such  was  the  need  of  haste  — 
sent  through  the  regular  and  proper  channels  (for  the  regi 
ment  formed  a  part  of  the  Third  Brigade,  Brigadier-General 
William  Hall  commanding),  but  directly  from  head-quarters 
at  Albany.  However,  on  receipt  of  the  Governor's  hurried 
order,  Colonel  Lefferts  issued  his  own,  requiring  the  de- 


THE   MARYLAND   CAMPAIGN   OF   1863.  297 

parture  of  the  regiment  the  same  afternoon,  and  addressed 
forthwith  to  Major  Van  Vliet  the  following  letter :  — 

NEW  YORK,  June  16. 
MAJOR  VAN  VLIET,  Quartermaster  U.  S.  A. 

SIR, —  I  am  directed  by  his  Excellency  Governor  Seymour  to  apply 
to  you  for  transportation  for  my  regiment  to  Harrisburg,  Pennsylvania. 
I  presume  I  shall  have  about  eight  hundred  men,  and  can  be  ready  late 
this  afternoon.  Will  you  please  inform  me  at  our  armory,  corner  Third 
Avenue  and  Sixth  Street,  when  and  where  such  transportation  will  be 
ready. 

M.  LEFFERTS,  Colonel  Seventh  Regiment. 

« The  steamer  Red  Jacket,  or  the  Kill  Von  Kull,  was  to  have 
been,  under  this  arrangement,  at  Pier  No.  2,  North  River, 
at  five  o'clock,  p.  M.,  to  convey  the  regiment  on  its  way;  but 
unfortunately  General  Hall,  who,  as  we  have  seen,  had 
heard  nothing  of  Colonel  Lefferts's  order  from  Albany  "  to 
proceed  forthwith"  went  to  the  armory  that  morning  while 
the  Colonel  was  absent,  making  the  arrangements  for  trans 
portation,  and  dismissed  the  officers  and  men  already  there 
assembled,  until  the  following  morning.  On  arriving  at  the 
armory,  very  soon  after,  Colonel  Leffcrts  was  greatly  cha 
grined  at  finding  he  had  lost  by  mere  accident  the  benefit, 
as  well  as  the  eclat,  of  unusual  promptness,  and  apprised  the 
State  authorities  of  the  fact  in  the  following  despatch  :  — 

June  16,  1863. 
GENERAL  JOHN  T.  SPRAGUE,  Adjutant-General,  Albany. 

I  had  made  my  arrangements  to  leave  this  afternoon ;  but  by  some  mis 
understanding,  General  Hall,  who  did  not  know  of  my  order  to  proceed, 
went  to  the  armory  and  dismissed  the  men  until  to-morrow  morning. 
This  was  done  a  short  time  before  I  reached  the  armory.  Of  course  I 
could  only  follow  the  course  indicated,  and  have  made  arrangements  to 
leave  to-morrow  morning,  at  seven  o'clock,  A.  M.,  if  transportation  is  ready. 
The  men  understand  that  they  go  only  for  a  short  time,  or,  in  other 
words,  to  meet  the  present  emergency. 

The  reply  from  Adjutant-General  Sprague  was :  "  The 
Governor  is  gratified  at  your  promptness,  and  hopes  you 
will  leave  as  you  anticipate."  The  same  message  regard- 


298  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

ing  the  mistake  at  the  armory  was  sent  by  Colonel  Lefferts 
to  General  Van  Vliet,  who  changed  his  arrangements  for 
transportation.  Orders  were  issued  as  follows  for  the  as 
sembly  of  the  regiment  at  an  early  hour  the  next  morn 
ing  :  - 

"  By  order  of  his  Excellency  the  Governor,  the  regiment  will  proceed 
to  Harrisburg,  Pennsylvania,  and  for  this  purpose  will  assemble  at  head 
quarters  at  seven  o'clock,  A.  M.,  to-morrow,  in  full  fatigue,  with  haversacks 
containing  one  day's  rations,  knapsacks,  blanket,  overcoat,  and  canteen. 
The  commandant  would  suggest  to  the  men  to  take  but  little  baggage. 
Meeting  of  officers  at  five  o'clock  this  afternoon  " 

At  the  officers'  meeting,  spoken  of  in  this  order,  Colonel 
Lefferts  was,  by  unanimous  vote,  requested  to  telegraph 
to  the  Governor  that  the  regiment  desired  its  services  to 
be  taken,  as  in  1861,  "  for  the  emergency,"  and  not  for 
continued  campaigning.  "  Their  honor,"  added  the  Colo 
nel  to  his  despatch,  "to  fulfil  all  duties  during  the  time 
can  be  relied  upon,  and  they  do  not  ask  any  consideration 
from  the  government  beyond  the  regular  pay  and  transpor 
tation.  Shall  I  go  ahead  on  this  understanding?  "  The 
Governor's  reply  was :  "  Go  ahead  on  your  proposition. 
Will  see  the  regiment  is  not  kept  longer  than  thirty  days." 

Rain  fell  in  torrents  on  the  morning  of  the  17th,  but  the 
regiment  marched  with  full  ranks,  in  the  finest  spirits,  and 
for  the  third  time  the  streets  were  thronged  with  an  en 
thusiastic  multitude  (this  time  armed  with  umbrellas)  to 
cheer  their  departure.  The  alarm  of  the  moment,  on  ac 
count  of  the  nearness  of  the  enemy  on  the  one  hand,  and 
the  spirit  and  promptness  of  the  regiment  on  the  other, 
gave  fervor  to  this  grand  public  ovation,  even  though  the 
war  was  now  an  old  story,  and  military  pageants  no  longer 
attracted  the  popular  gaze.  A  vast  throng  followed  the 
regiment  to  the  pier,  and  shouted  hearty  farewells  as  the 
steamer  started  for  Amboy. 

Delays  on  the  road  caused  the  regiment  to  reach  Phi1  - 


THE  MARYLAND   CAMPAIGN   OF   1863.  299 

delphia  late  in  the  afternoon.  There  Colonel  Leiferts  was 
requested  to  report  to  Lieutenant-Colonel  C.  S.  Ruff,  Third 
Cavalry  U.  S.  A.,  commanding  at  Philadelphia.  That  offi 
cer  delivered  him  a  written  order  from  Major-General  Hal- 
leek  to  proceed  to  Baltimore,  as  follows  :  — 

"  SIR,  —  You  will  proceed  without  delay  to  Baltimore,  Maryland.  Re 
port  on  the  arrival  of  your  regiment  to  Major-General  Robert  Schenek, 
United  States  Volunteers,  commanding  that  military  department.  Trans 
portation  is  provided  for  your  regiment  via  the  Philadelphia,  Wil 
mington,  and  Baltimore  Railroad." 

At  11  P.  M.,  accordingly,  the  weary  regiment  was 
marched  to  the  Baltimore  depot,  and  packed  in  the  cattle- 
cars  provided  for  their  transportation.  At  midnight,  Colo 
nel  Lefferts  telegraphed  to  General  Sprague  at  Albany :  "  I 
have  received  orders  from  Major-General  Halleck  to  pro 
ceed  to  Baltimore,  and  am  now  in  the  cars  ready  to  leave 
for  that  city.  1  presume  this  will  receive  the  sanction  of 
the  Governor."  The  answer  was  :  "  The  Governor  is  much 
pleased  with  your  promptness.  Execute  all  your  orders  and 
report  your  strength." 

And%thus  the  campaign  to  Harrisburg,  under  the  orders 
of  Governor  Seymour,  became  one  to  Baltimore,  under  the 
orders  of  General  Halleck. 

Baltimore  at  this  time  divided  with  Washington  the 
anxiety  of  North  and  South.  It  was  popularly  believed  to 
be  Lee's  primary  objective.  As  its  safety  was  certainly 
menaced,  troops  were  poured  into  it,  and  the  reinforcements 
originally  directed  upon  Harrisburg  were  turned  down  to 
Baltimore.  Fort  Federal  Hill  dominates  Baltimore ;  and 
Fort  Federal  Hill  was  once  more  intrusted  to  the  keeping 
of  the  Seventh  Regiment. 

Major-General  Robert  E.  Schenek  commanded,  at  this 
epoch,  the  Middle  Department  and  the  Eighth  Corps.  To 
him,  accordingly,  on  the  18th  of  June,  Colonel  Lefferts 


300  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

reported.  A  prospective  disposition  of  the  regiment  had 
already  been  made  at  head-quarters  ;  it  had  been  attached 
to  the  Second  Separate  Brigade  (Brevet  Brigadier-General 
Morris  commanding),  of  the  Eighth  Army  Corps,  and  was 
under  orders  to  proceed  forthwith  to  Fort  Marshall,  and 
relieve  the  One  Hundred  and  Fiftieth  Regiment  of  New 
York  Volunteers,  then  stationed  there. 

SPECIAL   OKDERS   No.  lt>3. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  MIDDLE  DEPARTMENT,  EIGHTH  ARMY  CORPS, 
BALTIMORE,  MD.,  June  18,  1863. 

4.  The  Seventh  Regiment  New  York  State  Militia  is  temporarily 
attached  to  the  Second  Separate  Brigade. 

On  their  arrival,  they  will  proceed  without  delay  to  Fort  Marshall, 
and  relieve  the  One  Hundred  and  Fiftieth  Regiment  New  York  Volun 
teer  Infantry,  now  stationed  there. 

The  commanding  officer  will  report  to  Brevet  Brigadier-General  Mor 
ris,  commanding  the  Second  Separate  Brigade,  for  orders. 
By  command  of  Major-General  Schenck, 

WM.  H.  ClIESEBROUGH, 

Assistant  Adjutant- General. 

Colonel  Lefferts  marched  his  regiment  to  the  barracks, — 
the  old  Continental  Hotel,  —  which  remained  head-quarters 
until  the  afternoon  of  the  following  day.  The  members  of 
the  regiment  were  soon  after  dismissed  from  duty  until 
half-past  nine  o'clock,  p.  M. 

Orders  for  provost  duty  in  the  city  came  on  the  morning 
of  the  19th.  Lieutenant  Lentilhon  and  twenty  men  were 
detailed  from  Company  K  to  escort  provisions  to  Fort 
McHenry  ;  and  the  whole  of  the  Second,  Sixth,  and  Ninth 
Companies,  under  command  of  Captain  Easton,  guarded  a 
body  of  prisoners,  twelve  hundred  strong,  taken  by  General 
Grant  at  Port  Gibson,  across  the  city  from  the  Baltimore  and 
Ohio  Railroad  depot,  to  the  steamer  plying  to  Fort  Delaware. 
The  filthy  condition  in  which  these  troops  had  jealously 
preserved  themselves  made  this  duty  particularly  unsavory. 

Meanwhile,  the  orders  to  proceed  to  Fort  Marshall  had 


THE  MARYLAND   CAMPAIGN   OF   1863.  301 

been  revoked,  and  the  destination  of  the  regiment  changed 
to  Fort  Federal  Hill.  The  prospect  of  a  protracted  occu 
pation  of  Baltimore  was  disheartening  to  the  regiment, 
which  had  been  hitherto  in  the  highest  spirits  over  the 
bright  promise  of  a  short  campaign  in  the  field.  The  dull 
round  of  garrison  duty  seemed  doubly  annoying  at  this 
crisis  in  the  war  ;  and  the  wish  to  escape  its  monotony  was 
universal.  However,  at  three  o'clock,  p.  M.,  of  the  19th, 
the  regiment  assembled  and  marched  to  the  fort.  A 
detachment  of  Colonel  Peter  A.  Porter's  regiment,  now 
become  the  Eighth  New  York  Heavy  Artillery,  still  gar 
risoned  it.  The  salutes  of  1862  were  now  reversed ;  for, 
as  the  Tenth  marched  out,  the  Seventh  marched  in.  But 
the  fort  was  no  longer  the  model  of  neatness  and  cleanli 
ness  they  had  left,  and  the  quarters  of  the  men  had  to 
undergo  a  thorough  cleaning  before  becoming  the  com 
fortable  apartments  of  the  year  before.  Colonel  Porter's 
command  was  then  concentrated  in  Fort  Marshall.  The 
following  were  the  orders  of  transfer  :  — 

SPECIAL   ORDERS  No.  1G4. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  MIDDLE  DEPARTMENT,  EIGHTH  ARMY  CORPS, 
BALTIMORE,  MD.,  June  19,  1863. 

4.  So  much  of  Paragraph  4,  Special  Orders  No.  1G3,  as  directs  the 
Seventh  New  York  State  Militia  to  proceed  to  Fort  Marshall,  is  re 
voked.  They  will  proceed  forthwith  to  Fort  Federal  Hill,  and  relieve 
the  detachment  of  the  Eighth  New  York  Volunteer  Artillery,  Colonel 
P.  A.  Porter  commanding. 

The  Eighth  New  York  Artillery,  on  being  relieved,  will  proceed  to 
Fort  Marshall  and  relieve  the  One  Hundred  and  Fiftieth  Regiment  New 
York  Volunteer  Infantry,  now  temporarily  stationed  there. 

The  One  Hundred  and  Fiftieth  Regiment  New  York  Volunteer  In 
fantry,  on  being  relieved,  will  return  to  their  former  quarters  at  Belger 
Barracks. 

By  command  of  Major-General  Schenck, 

WM.  H.  CHESEBROUGH, 

Assistant  Adjutant-General. 

Key-point,  as  it  was,  of  the  civic  defences,  the  fort  was 


302  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

instantly  put  into  the  best  possible  condition,  and  soldierly 
vigilance  and  discipline  were  enforced.  Artillery  drill  was 
begun  at  once,  and  unremittingly  continued  for  several 
days,  till  its  elements  were  made  familiar,  when  the  practice 
became  more  methodical.  Assignments  were  made  of  the 
various  companies  to  the  principal  defences,  immediately 
on  entering  the  fort,  as  follows :  — 

GENERAL  OHDERS  No.  14. 

HEAD-QUAKTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT,  FORT  FEDERAL  HILL, 
BALTIMORE,  June  20,  1863. 

The  following  assignment  is  made  for  the  government  of  officers  and 
men :  — 

T3     , .      XT  (  Lieut.  Comdg.  Waldo,  Co.  H. 

Bastion  No.  1.     •< 

C  Lieut.  Comdg.  Faunton,  Co.  A,  guns  1,  2,  3,  4,  5,  6,  7. 

Bastion  No.  2.     5  CaPt<  YounS'  Ca  F'  Suns  8'  9'  10'  H'  12'  13> 

(  Lt.  Comdg.  Everdell,  Co.  D,  guns  14, 15,*  16, 1 7, 18, 19. 

Bastion  No.  3.     J  CaPt"  Easton'  Ca  J'  Suns  2°'  21'  22'  23'  24' 
t  Capt.  Button,  Co.  E,  guns  25,  26,  27,  28.* 

North  Curtain,    j  CaPt  R°Sers'  Ca  K'  SunS  29'  3°'  31'  32  * 
(  Lieut.  Comdg.  Ryders,  Co.  C. 

Bastion  No  4      J  CaPt  Clark'  Co>  B'  guns  33'  34'  35  *  36'  37' 

(Lieut.  Comdg.  Felt,  Co.  G,  guns  38,  39,  40,  41. 

The  above-mentioned  officers  will  be  held  responsible  for  the  complete 
order,  equipment,  and  state  of  efficiency  of  a  requisite  number  of  men 
for  the  respective  localities  mentioned.  They  will  make  themselves 
thoroughly  acquainted  with  the  different  kinds  of  ammunition,  where 
stored,  &c.  . 

By  order, 

COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS. 

Outside  the  forts,  all  was  excitement.  When  would  Lee 
come  ?  Would  he  come  ?  One  party  in  the  city  feared,  the 
other  longed,  for  his  approach  ;  but  preparations  for  a  warm 
reception  were  made.  "  Extensive  field  works,'-  says  the 
"  History  of  the  Second  Company,"  "were  erected  for  the 
defence  of  the  city ;  the  streets  leading  into  the  country 
were  barricaded,  and  all  loyal  men  were  organized,  armed, 

*  Mortars.  Captain  Dutton  and  his  Company  were  afterwards  (June  30)  trans 
ferred  from  Bastion  No.  3  to  Bastion  No.  1. 


THE   MARYLAND   CAMPAIGN   OF   1863.  303 

and  drilled.  The  excitement  which  prevailed  on  all  sides 
was  fearful,  yet  there  seemed  to  be  a  firm  determination 
not  to  yield  the  city  without  a  desperate  resistance ;  and 
Forts  McHenry,  Marshall,  and  Federal  Hill  were  in  perfect 
readiness,  with  shot  and  shell,  to  welcome  the  invaders." 
On  the  20th  of  June,  Colonel  Lefferts  was  ordered  from 
brigade  head-quarters,  "  without  delay,  to  send  by  his 
teamsters  all  the  spades  and  pickaxes  .he  can  spare  to  the 
corner  of  Lansdale  Street  and  Pennsylvania  Avenue,  Balti 
more,  and  turn  them  over  to  Lieutenant  Meigs,  United 
States  Engineers,  at  that  place." 

Within  the  forts,  all  was  quiet  but  busy  preparation.  The 
brigade  commander,  General  Morris,  U.  S.  A.,  had  been 
intrusted  with  the  important  command  of  the  defences  of 
Baltimore  ;  and  that  officer,  immediately  on  the  Seventh's 
arrival,  directed,  by  Special  Orders  No.  106,  "  that  Colonel 
Marshall  Lefferts,  commanding  Fort  Federal  Hill,  shall 
drill  his  command  twice  each  day  in  artillery  and  once  in 
infantry  until  further  orders.  These  instructions  were 
strictly  carried  out.  Rockets  were,  the  same  day,  sent  to 
the  fort,  to  signal  the  enemy's  approach,  with  the  following 
instructions :  — 

HEAD-QUAETERS  SECOND  SEPAEATE  BEIGADE,  EIGHTH  AEMY  COEPS, 

DEFENCES  OF  BALTIMOEE,  FORT  MCHENEY,  June  20,  1863. 
COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  Fort  Federal  Hill. 

COLONEL,  —  I  am  instructed  by  the  general  commanding  to  send 
you  (30)  thirty  rockets,  to  be  used  as  signals,  if  occasion  should  require. 
Should  an  approach  of  the  enemy,  or  any  other  event,  render  it  im 
portant,  in  your  opinion,  to  summon  the  garrisons  at  Forts  McHenry 
and  Marshall  to  arms,  three  rockets  will  be  sent  up  by  you  at  intervals  of 
two  minutes.  The  sentinels  at  your  post  will  be  instructed  accordingly. 
The  same  order  is  given  at  this  post  and  at  Fort  Marshall,  and  the 
above  signal  from  either  of  these  forts  will  be  duly  observed  and  obeyed 
at  your  post. 

By  command  of  Brigadier-General  Morris,  U.  S.  A., 

E.  W.  ANDREWS, 
Giptain  and  Acting  Assistant  Adjutant- General. 


304  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Colonel  Lefferts  was  further  instructed  to  build  an  abat- 
tis  entirely  around  the  fort,  procuring  the  brush  and  tim 
ber  from  Colonel  Donaldson  of  the  Quartermaster's  De 
partment.  The  original  order  read,  "  The  work  will  be 
done  by  your  own  men  "  ;  but  as  no  time  could  be  lost,  a 
subsequent  order  permitted  him  to  employ* citizens  in  laying 
it,  if  his  own  force  was  not  sufficient  to  complete  it  as  fast 
as  the  brush  was  supplied.  These  were  the  orders :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  MIDDLE  DEPARTMENT,  EIGHTH  ARMY  CORPS, 
BALTIMORE,  June  27,  1S63. 

COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  Fort  Federal  Hill. 

COLONEL,  —  The  Quartermaster's  Department  has  been  ordered  to 
furnish  you  with  the  necessary  timber  to  construct  an  abattis  around 
Fort  Federal  Hill.     You  will  confer  with  Colonel  Donaldson  as  to  the 
amount  you  need,  and  push  the  work  vigorously. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

W.  H.  CHESEBROUGH, 

Lieutenant-  Colonel  and  A.  A.  A.  G. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SECOND  SEPARATE  BRIGADE,  EIGHTH  ARMY  CORPS, 

DEFENCES  OF  BALTIMOKE,  FORT  MCHENRY,  July  1,  1863. 
COLONEL  M.  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  Fort  Federal  Hill. 

COLONEL,  —  I  am  directed  by  the  general  commanding  to  state  that 
you  will  build  the  abattis  entirely  around  the  fort.     If  the  force  you 
have  is  not  sufficient  to  complete  the  work  as  fast  as  the  abattis  is 
supplied,  citizens  can  be  employed. 
Your  obedient  servant, 

A.  VAN  NESS,  Lieutenant  and  A.  D.  C. 
FORT  CARROLL  OFFICE,  BALTIMORE,  June  29,  1863. 
COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  Fort  Federal  Hill. 

SIR,  —  I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  com 
munication  of  this  date,  concerning  repairs,  &c.  required  at  Fort  Fed 
eral  Hill,  and  in  reply  would  state  that  the  present  condition  of  the 
slopes,  &c.  is  unavoidable.  The  only  serious  damage  exists  at  the 
"  northeast  bastion  on  left  face,"  where  I  am  about  constructing  a  re 
taining  wall,  which  will  be  commenced  to-morrow  morning.  Those  por 
tions  of  the  east  curtain  yet  unsodded  are  expected  to  be  completed  by 
the  garrison  of  the  fort.  They  were  only  abandoned  on  the  removal  of 
the  Eighth  New  York  Artillery,  by  whom  all  the  recent  repairs  have 
been  made. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

N.  H.  BUTTON. 


THE  MARYLAND   CAMPAIGN   OF   1863  305 

Half  a  dozen  other  official  orders  and  communications 
in  reference  to  the  abattis  which  the  regiment  threw  down 
around  their  fort  relate  to  the  urgency  of  the  work.  All 
the  bridges,  roads,  and  other  approaches  to  the  city,  were, 
of  course,  strongly  picketed.  To  guard  four  important  out 
posts  became,  in  addition  to  its  garrison  duty,  the  charge 
of  the  Seventh.  These  were  Locust  Point,  Mud  Bridge, 
Long  Bridge,  and  Sweitzer  Bridge.  A  sergeant,  two  cor 
porals,  and  thirteen  privates  of  the  Fifth  Company  were  de 
tailed  as  guard  to  Locust  Point ;  a  sergeant,  two  corporals, 
and  ten  privates  of  the  Seventh  Company  to  Mud  Bridge ; 
a  sergeant,  two  corporals,  and  nine  privates  of  the  Ninth 
Company  to  Long  Bridge  ;  a  sergeant,  two  corporals,  and 
nine  privates  of  the  Sixth  Company  to  Sweitzer  Bridge. 
Their  duties  were  those  usually  devolved  on  outpost  guards, 
and  the  details  were  afterwards  relieved  in  turn  by  others. 
On  July  1st,  a  detail  from  Lieutenant  Kitchen's  company 
(A)  relieved  the  guard  at  Sweitzer  Bridge,  and  a  detail 
from  Lieutenant  Ryder's  company  (C)  relieved  the  guard 
at  Mud  Bridge. 

Further  to  guard  against  surprise,  a  signal  line  was  estab 
lished  on  the  turnpike  from  Baltimore  to  Hereford,  twenty- 
one  miles  distant,  by  which  route  the  enemy  was  expected. 
This  signal  line  was  put  in  charge  of  Captain  James  R. 
Hosmer,  of  the  Quartermaster's  Department,  U.  S.  A.,  who 
had  established  about  a  dozen  intermediate  stations  be 
tween  the  head-quarters  in  Monument  Square  and  the  cav 
alry  picket  at  Hereford,  in  commanding  positions  upon 
hills,  house-tops,  and  church-steeples.  Three  men,  provided 
with  the  usual  apparatus  of  flag,  field-glass,  and  rockets, 
formed  each  station.  Lieutenant  Palmer  and  thirty-six 
men  of  the  Second  Company  were  detached  for  this  service. 

Within  the  city  the  Seventh  Regiment  was  no  less  busy 
than  at  the  fort  and  at  the  outposts.  In  addition  to  other 
duties,  it  acted  as  provost-guard,  by  Special  Order  No.  169, 
from  corps  head-quarters,  as  follows  :  — 


306  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

"  The  commanding  officer  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  M.  will 
detail  from  his  command  one  full  company,  to  report  every  day  until 
further  orders,  at  nine  o'clock,  A.  M.,  to  Major  William  S.  Fish,  Provost- 
Marshal  Eighth  Army  Corps,  for  patrol  duty." 

The  Fourth  Company  (D),  Lieutenant  Commanding 
Everdell,  and  the  Eighth  Company  (H),  Lieutenant  Com 
manding  Waldo,  were  both  detailed,  in  order  that  their  joint 
strength  might  amount  to»  about  ninety  men.  On  the  2d 
of  July,  the  Sixth  and  Tenth  Companies,  under  command 
of  Captain  Rogers,  relieved  the  Fourth  and  Eighth  in  their 
duty. 

Special  provost  duty  was  also  required  of  the  regiment. 
In  one  case,  Colonel  Chesebrough,  of  General  Schenck's 
staff,  came  in  person,  an  hour  before  midnight  of  June 
27th,  asking  for  a  force  of  sixty  or  eighty  men  to  go  forth 
with  on  an  important  expedition.  In  twenty  minutes  after 
Colonel  Chesebrough's  unexpected  summons,  the  Second 
and  Fifth  Companies,  roused  from  sleep,  were  tramping  at 
double-quick  along  the  pavements  of  the  city.  The  "  objec 
tive  "  proved  to  be  the  Maryland  Club-House,  suspected 
now,  on  the  victorious  approach  of  Lee's  army,  of  being  a 
trysting-place  for  disloyal  citizens,  who  there  brewed,  not 
only  pacific  punch,  but  "  treason,  strategem,  and  spoils." 
The  alarm  had  been  taken  and  the  Club-House  shut,  so  that 
the  expedition  returned,  foiled.  The  following  memoran 
dum  is  contained  in  the  book  of  Regimental  Records  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT,  FORT  FEDERAL  HILL. 
At  11.10  P.  M.,  June  27,  1863,  a  verbal  order  was  received  from  Gen 
eral  Schenck,  through  General  Chesebrough  in  person,  requiring  a  de 
tail  of  from  sixty  to  eighty  men,  which  were  promptly  got  together  and 
left  the  fort  in  twenty  minutes  from  the  time  the  order  was  first  re 
ceived.  The  detail  was  from  Companies  B  and  E,  and  proceeded  on 
the  double-quick  to  Washington  Monument,  and,  having  performed  the 
duty  required,  returned  at  one  o'clock,  A.  M.,  June  28th,  to  the  fort. 

E.  B.  SCROOP,  Private  Secretary. 

However,  General  Schenck  was  bent  on  preventing  as- 


THE   MARYLAND   CAMPAIGN   OF   1863.  307 

seinblies  in  the  Club-House  ;  and,  soon  after,  the  regimental 
patrol  seized  it  and  arrested  the  inmates. 

Besides  such  new  and  lively  experiences,  there  were  also 
the  old  duties  to  perform  of  escorting  prisoners  and  deserters 
to  various  points.  On  the  20th  of  June,  Captain  Rogers, 
with  one  non-commissioned  officer  and  ten  men,  proceeded 
by  transport  to  Fort  Monroe,  in  charge  of  ninety-four  Con 
federate  paroled  prisoners,  and  turned  them  over  to  the 
commanding  officer  at  that  point.  On  the  25th,  Lieutenant 
Ryder,  Company  E,  with  one  sergeant  and  ten  men,  pro 
ceeded  to  Annapolis  to  Camp  Parole,  in  charge  of  forty-five 
paroled  prisoners.  On  the  26th,  Lieutenant  Cragin,  of 
Company  I,  with  one  sergeant  and  ten  men,  proceeded  by 
Bay  steamer  to  Fort  Monroe,  in  charge  of  sixty-two  Con 
federate  prisoners,  returning  on  the  28th.  On  the  29th, 
Lieutenant  Smith,  of  Company  B,  with  a  sergeant,  corporal, 
and  ten  privates  of  Company  C,  proceeded  to  Alexandria, 
Virginia,  in  charge  of  thirty-seven  soldier  prisoners,  deliv 
ering  them  to  the  commanding  officer  of  the  camp  of  dis 
tribution.  On  the  4th  of  July,  Lieutenant  Palmer,  with 
four  non-commissioned  officers  and  forty-five  men  of  the 
Second  Company,  proceeded  by  steamer  to  Fort  Delaware 
in  charge  of  fifty-two  captured  Confederate  officers. 

Plenty  of  other  work,  too,  was  found  for  the  regiment : 
it  did  not  rust  out.  On  the  23d  of  June,  Captain  Dutton, 
Company  E,  with  sixteen  men,  proceeded  to  the  Union  Re 
lief  Saloon,  Camden  Station,  for  provost  duty  there  under 
Lieutenant  Titus.  On  the  29th,  a  sergeant,  a  corporal,  and 
six  men  of  Company  A,  Captain  Bensel,  reported  for  duty 
at  Fort  McHenry ;  and,  on  the  same  day,  a  permanent 
guard  of  two  sergeants,  four  corporals,  and  twenty  men, 
half  each  from  Company  I,  Captain  Easton,  and  Company 
K,  Captain  Rogers,  was  ordered  to  the  same  fort  with  fif 
teen  days'  rations.  The  Fort  McHenry  garrison  was  small, 
and  it  was  not  long,  as  we  shall  see,  before  two  more  calls 


308  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

for  aid  were  made  upon  the  Seventh  Regiment  and  re 
sponded  to.  Even  small  loans  of  "  a  drummer  and  fifer  " 
were  effected  by  the  "  South  Baltimore  Union  League  "  and 
kindred  worthy  organizations. 

Such,  in  fine,  were  some  of  the  multifold  duties  of  gar 
rison,  of  outpost,  and  picket,  of  signal  station,  of  provost 
and  patrol,  of  guarding  and  escorting  prisoners  and  desert 
ers,  of  caring  for  the  sick  and  wounded,  of  eking  out  the 
numbers  and  duties  of  other  regiments,  and  the  like,  which 
the  Seventh  was  called  upon  to  perform.  It  may  well  be 
believed  that  its  life  was  not  an  idle  one,  arid  all  fears  of 
monotony  in  garrison  life  had  proved  groundless.  One 
great  source  of  annoyance,  therefore,  to  Colonel  Lefferts, 
was  that  he  had  not  more  men  at  command,  in  order  to  re 
lieve  the  overworked,  and  to  be  able  to  render  still  more 
efficient  service.  Sometimes  he  had  not  men  enough  for 
guard  at  the  fort. 

Considering  the  suddenness  of  the  call,  considering  also 
the  large  numbers  of  active  members  of  the  regiment  who 
were  serving  at  the  front,  and,  moreover,  the  fact  that  the 
novelty  of  the  war  had  worn  off  in  1863,  the  rally  of  the 
regiment  in  its  third  campaign  had  been  very  creditable. 
It  had  been  joined,  too,  by  several  detachments,  who  had 
been  unable  to  start  with  it.  On  the  18th  of  June  a  de 
tachment  of  forty-seven  non-commissioned  officers  and  pri 
vates,  Sergeant  Van  Norden,  Company  B,  commanding, 
started  from  New  York,  forwarded  by  Captain  Riblet.  On 
the  20th  the  same  officer  forwarded  a  detachment  of  thirty- 
one  men,  under  command  of  Orderly-Sergeant  Pollard,  of 
Company  C.  On  the  22d  he  forwarded  the  regimental 
band,  consisting  of  Grafulla  and  twenty-five  men,  besides 
nineteen  non-commissioned  officers  and  privates  and  two 
drummers,  —  Captain  Bensel,  Company  A,  commanding 
the  whole  party.  On  the  23d,  Captain  Haws  left  New  York 
for  the  fort  with  ten  or  twelve  men.  On  the  27th,  Lieuten- 


THE   MARYLAND   CAMPAIGN   OF   1863.  309 

ant  Kitchen  went  forward  with  a  small  detachment.  Colo 
nel  Lefferts  even  had  an  offer  of  one  hundred  men  for  the 
regiment  from  the  returned  veterans  of  the  Fifth  New 
York,  but  it  was  not  accepted.  It  came  in  the  following 
language : — 

NEW  YORK,  No.  9  SECOND  AVENUE,  June  23,  1863. 
COLONEL  M.  LEFFERTS. 

SIR, —  In  behalf  of  a  great  number  of  the  returned  old  men  of  the 
Fifth  New  York  Volunteers,  who  built  the  fort  you  now  occupy,  which 
we  fear  is  in  some  danger,  1  respectfully  offer  you  one  hundred  veterans 
of  this  regiment,  fully  equipped  in  our  uniform,  to  be  attached  to  and 
under  your  command,  in  less  than  seven  days  from  the  receipt  of  your 
acceptance  of  the  same.  I  refer  you  to  Captain  Easton,  Private  Scher- 
merhorn,  and  numerous  others  of  your  regiment. 

J.  HENRY  WHITNEY, 
Captain  Fifth  New  York  Volunteers, 

However,  there  were  many  who  from  good  reasons,  and 
many  who  from  bad  reasons,  stayed  behind  in  New  York 
through  the  campaign.  The  unexpected  and  unwelcome 
detention  of  the  regiment  in  Baltimore  undoubtedly  di 
verted  some  who  would  have  gone  on  from  doing  so.  "  It 
is  the  old  story  of  garrison  life,"  they  argued,  "  and  there  is 
really  no  need  of  us.  As  soon  as  we  hear  of  the  regiment's 
being  in  the  field,  we  will  join  them."  This  was  the  solace 
they  applied  to  their  consciences,  as  well  as  the  excuse  they 
gave  to  their  friends.  In  forwarding  the  first  detachment 
of  reinforcements,  Captain  Riblet  wrote  to  Colonel  Lef 
ferts  :  "I  think  on  Saturday  or  Monday  as  large  or  a 
larger  detachment  may  be  sent  forward,  unless  the  regi 
ment  should  remain  in  Baltimore.  In  that  case  I  am 
doubtful  about  it." 

On  the  25th  of  June,  General  Schenck  sent  a  request  to 
know  the  exact  effective  strength  of  the  command.  Colo 
nel  Lefferts,  in  response,  reported  a  total  of  six  hundred 
and  fifty-two  men ;  but  from  this  was  to  be  deducted  the 
band  (which  did  not  march  at  the  start,  but  arrived  on  the 
28d),  twenty-four  strong,  and  the  sick,  numbering  seven- 


310  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

teen,  —  leaving  an  effective  strength  of  six  hundred  and 
eleven,  officers  and  men.  To  Colonel  Lefferts,  who,  on 
the  one  hand,  had  been  made  aware  of  the  real  danger  that 
menaced  Baltimore,  and  the  consequent  importance  of  the 
post,  and  who,  on  the  other,  was  constantly  driven  to  new 
expedients  to  meet  the  large  details  daily  made  upon  him, 
the  backwardness  of  the  young  men  in  New  York  was  very 
annoying.  He  telegraphed  an  urgent  appeal  for  more  men 
to  Quartermaster  Winchester  :  — 

FORT  FEDERAL  HILL,  BALTIMORE,  June  27,  1863. 
LOCKE  W.  WINCHESTER,  Fifth  Avenue  Hotel,  New  York. 

I  wish  you  to  see  Riblet  and  tell  him  I  want  more  men  at  once. 
There  is  a  large  number  in  the  city  who  have  professed  to  be  waiting 
for  the  necessity  to  arrive.  Now  is  their  time.  Let  us  see  who  will 
support  their  comrades. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS, 

Colonel  Commanding  Seventh  Regiment. 

Two  days  later  he  telegraphed  to  Captain  Riblet  a  still 
more  pressing  summons.  This  last  telegram  ran  as  fol 
lows  :  — 

GENERAL   ORDER  No.    15. 

SEVENTH  REGIMENT  NEW  YORK  NATIONAL  GUARD, 
FORT  FEDERAL  HILL,  BALTIMORE,  MD.,  June  29,  1863. 

By  order  of  the  President  of  the  United  States  and  his  Excellency  the 
Governor  of  the  State  of  New  York,  this  regiment  reported  for  duty  in 
the  field.  As  a  number  of  the  members  did  not  come  with  the  regiment. 
I  feel  it  my  duty,  in  obedience  to  the  commands  stated,  to  issue  this 
order,  and  direct  all  officers  and  men  to  report  at  this  post  forthwith. 

Captain  William  H.  Riblet  has  been  directed  to  furnish  transporta 
tion,  to  whom  application  will  be  made. 

We  do  not  want  substitutes  or  recruits;  we  have  regular  members 
enough  of  our  own  organization  who  have  been  drilled,  and  who  should 
willingly  share  the  dangers  and  work  of  their  comrades.  It  has  been 
represented  to  me  that  some  members  are  prevented  from  joining  their 
regiment  because  their  employers  refuse  to  allow  them  to  leave  their 
places  of  business.  Can  it  be  possible  that  those  who  are  enjoying  the 
benefits  of  our  institutions,  without  the  perpetuity  of  which  their  business 
would  be  worth  but  little,  can  refuse  a  few  weeks'  absence  to  a  clerk  or 


THE   MARYLAND   CAMPAIGN   OF   1863.  311 

partner  who  is  willing  to  do  his  mite  toward  the  settlement  of  this  great 
issue  for  a  nationality,  the  benefits  of  which  may  bless  his  children,  even 
if  the  father  may  look  with  cold  blood  upon  the  struggle  which  he  does 
not  care  to  participate  in  or  assist  ? 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS, 
Colonel  Commanding  Seventh  Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  G. 

With  this  telegram  Colonel  Lefferts  sent  instructions  to 
have  a  thousand  copies  printed,  and  every  member  in  New 
York  served  with  one.  Sworn  warrants  of  service  were  to 
be  returned  to  him,  and  captains  of  companies  were  or 
dered  to  assist  Captain  Riblet  in  finding  the  probable 
whereabouts  of  the  men.  A  copy  was  posted  also  on  the 
armory  bulletin  board.  The  following  call  was  also  pub 
lished  in  the  New  York  newspapers :  — 

NEW  YORK,  June  29,  1863. 

All  officers  and  members  of  this  regiment,  remaining  in  the  city,  are 
requested  to  meet  at  the  armory  on  Wednesday  evening,  July  1st,  at 
eight  o'clock.  The  object  of  the  meeting  is  most  important ;  and  every 
member  not  already  with  the  regiment  in  Baltimore  is  expected  to  be 

present. 

B.  M.  NEVERS,  Major. 
H.  C.  SHUMWAY,  Captain  Company  H. 
W.  H.  RIBLET,  Captain  Company  D. 
GEO.  W.  ELY,  Captain  Company  G. 

In  sending  the  telegram,  Colonel  Lefferts  also  hurriedly 
wrote  a  sharp  letter  desiring  that  its  sentiments  should  be 
made  public  as  far  as  publicity  could  do  any  good.  We 
shall  presently  see  the  reason  of  this  urgency.  The  letter 
was  as  follows  :  — 

FORT  FEDERAL  HILL,  BALIMORE,  June  29, 1863. 
CAPTAIN  W.  H.  RIBLET. 

MY  DEAR  SIR,  —  I  have  not  been  able,  up  to  the  present  time,  to  find 
a  few  moments  to  write  you.  I  have  received  your  several  detachments, 
and  they  have  been  much  needed.  I  telegraphed  you  on  Saturday  even 
ing,  care  of  Winchester,  that  I  wanted  some  men  badly.  We  have  not 
enough  to  defend  the  fort  as  it  should  be  defended ;  and  daily  calls  upon 
our  force  for  details,  with  what  we  have  out  on  picket  and  signal  duty, 
make  the  work  very  hard  indeed.  I  wish  you  would  give  my  telegram 


312  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

publicity.      Put  a  copy  on  the  armory  bulletin   board,  so  that  we  can 
ascertain  who  will  support  their  comrades. 

Those  young  gentlemen  who  are  so  loud-mouthed  about  their  willing 
ness  to  rush  on  whenever  there  is  danger  can  be  informed  that  the  time 
has  come  when  such  an  exigency  is  more  than  probable.  Should  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac  be  defeated,  Baltimore  will  be  attacked.  It  even 
may  be  before  the  general  battle  comes  off;  but  shame  to  those  men 
who  will  wait  to  see  if  there  is  to  be  a  battle  !  By  the  time  they  find  out, 
we  shall  not  want  them. 

I  never  found  the  men  so  willing,  obedient,  and  soldierly  as  they  are 
this  time,  and  I  am  proud  of  them,  as  I  ought  to  be.  They  are  support 
ing  the  honor  of  the  regiment  for  those  who  hang  about  the  streets  of 
New  York,  and  talk  of  their  valiant  INTENTIONS. 

There  are,  in  individual  cases,  good  reasons  to  prevent  men  from  com 
ing,  and  no  one  is  more  willing  than  I  to  concede  the  existence  of  such 
cases,  and  to  go  out  of  his  way  to  have  such  men  relieved  from  duty. 
But  I  have  neither  respect  nor  patience  for  those  who  try  to  sneak  out 
of  their  own  duty  by  underrating  the  work  of  their  companions,  and 
slur  their  patriotism  and  sacrifices  by  saying  they,  too,  are  ready  to  come 
"when  the  regiment  takes  the  field." 

Pardon  me  if  I  write  strongly,  but  I  write  as  I  feel.  The  future  will 
justify  all  I  say.  1  care  not  who  knows  just  what  I  have  written.  I 
considered  my  verbal  order  sufficient  for  you  to  take  charge,  and  push 
forward  detachments,  but  I  enclose  you  a  written  one  for  the  purpose 
desired. 

Yours  truly, 

M.  LEFFERTS, 
Colonel  Commanding  Seventh  Regiment. 

As  June  wore  away,  the  crisis  of  that  memorable  battle- 
summer  of  1864  drew  on  apace.  Grand  events  occurred 
during  the  Seventh's  sojourn  in  Baltimore.  Lee,  au 
dacious  and  confident,  gathering  up  to  him  from  Fred- 
ericksburg  the  corps  of  A.  P.  Hill,  had  at  length  joined  all 
his  army  of  invasion  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley,  whose 
seizure  by  Ewell,  on  the  13th  of  June,  has  been  already  re 
corded.  On  the  22d  of  June,  Ewell's  corps  passed  the  Po 
tomac,  swept  across  Maryland,  and  entered  Pennsylvania  ; 
two  days  later,  Lee  followed  with  his  whole  body.  On  the 
27th  the  main  Confederate  Army  encamped  near  Chambers- 


THE   MARYLAND    CAMPAIGN   OF   1803.  313 

burg,  while  to  the  north,  along  the  Susquehanna,  Early  en 
circled  York  and  Carlisle.  General  Lee  addressed  himself 
to  join  his  whole  force  to  Early. 

At  that  juncture  came  Hooker's  famous  check  to  the  Con 
federate  campaign,  —  a  move  on  which  may  have  hung  the 
fate  of  the  Union.  When,  on  the  13th  of  June,  General 
Hooker  heard  that  Lee's  head  of  column  was  in  the  Shen- 
andoah  Valley,  and  was  bearing  down  upon  Winchester,  he 
at  once  loosed  his  grasp  on  the  Rappahannock,  and,  break 
ing  camp,  moved  back  to  Fairfax  and  Manassas,  in  order 
to  cover  Washington,  there  remaining  till  Lee  should  de 
velop  his  purpose.  But  instantly,  on  learning  that  Lee 
had  crossed  the  Potomac,  Hooker  followed  to  the  northern 
bank,  yet  not  backward  upon  Washington,  but,  with  mar 
tial  in spi ration,  forward  to  Frederick. 

The  eifect  was  instantaneous.  Lee  saw  his  communica 
tions  to  be  menaced,  and  suspended  his  northward  move 
ment.  Should  Hooker  continue  to  approach  the  South 
Mountains,  and  attain  to  Harper's  Ferry,  ruin  would  be  in 
store.  What,  then,  should  be  dfone  ? 

To  match  Hooker's  manoeuvre  with  a  move  as  imperious 
was  the  task  imposed  upon  the  Confederate  chieftain.  His 
resolve  was  prompt.  Checking  his  northward  march  by  the 
Cumberland  Valley  from  Chambersburg,  and  turning  east 
erly,  he  started  across  the  mountain  range,'  to  directly 
threaten  Baltimore.  The  orders  to  move  on  Harrisburg 
were  revoked,  and  Baltimore  became  'the  objective.  The 
design,  of  course,  was  to  furnish  Hooker  a  Roland  for  his 
Oliver,  —  to  bring  the  Union  forces  to  a  halt  in  their  men 
acing  march,  and  to  force  them  to  retrace  their  steps,  ret 
rograding  ^easterly  towards  Baltimore.  This  change  of 
purpose  was  made  on  the  night  of  the  28th  of  June  ;  at 
dawn  of  the  29th,  the  columns  were  put  in  motion.  This 
29th  of  June  was  the  date  of  Colonel  Lefferts's  homeward 
appeal,  based  on  the  ground  that  Baltimore  was  in  peril ; 


314  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

for  the  rumor  of  its  danger  was  already  rife  in  the  streets 
of  the  city.     Let  us  again  turn  thither. 

With  Lee's  march  through  Maryland  and  Pennsylvania, 
preparations  to  defend  Baltimore  were  redoubled.  Great 
vigilance  was  exacted.  On  the  24th  of  June,  as  has  been 
said,  a  signal  line  was  established  to  Hereford.  Detach 
ments  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  were  sent  to  supply  the  exi 
gencies  of  Fort  McHenry,  and  ammunition  was  sent  to  Port 
Marshall,  which  latter  point  was  commanded  by  the  accom 
plished  Colonel  P.  A.  Porter,  with  his  Eighth  New  York 
Artillery,  after  being  relieved  by  Colonel  Lefferts  from  the 
charge  of  Fort  Federal  Hill.  The  following  was  the  corre 
spondence  :  — 

FORT  MARSHALL,  June  21,  1863. 
COLONEL  M.  LEFFERTS. 

DEAR  SIR,  —  I  send,  by  Lieutenant  Swan  of  this  regiment,  General 
Morris's  order  for  one  of  the  howitzers  of  which  we  spoke.  The  howit 
zers  and  field  pieces  at  Fort  McHenry  have  been  used  for  the  barricades, 
so  that  we  have  had  to  call  upon  you.  Will  you  be  good  enough  to  let 
me  have,  say  fifty  rounds  of  the  canister  and  fifty  rounds  of  the  shell,  for 
the  piece.  Yours  truly* 

P.  A.  PORTER, 

Colonel  Eighth  New  York  Volunteer  Artillery,  Commanding  Fort  Marshall. 

FORT  MARSHALL,  June  23,  1863. 

DEAR  COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  —  I  have  written  to  General  Morris  about 
the  six-pounder,  at  your  fort,  belonging  to  the  United  States.  If  he 
thinks  it  best  for  this  fort  to  have  it,  he  will  give  such  an  order.  I  have 
not  asked  for  any  more,  of  the  United  States  guns,  thinking  you  would 
need  them.  I  don't  want  you  to  think  that  I  am  trying  to  despoil  you,  but 
all  I  will  have  here  will  be  one  howitzer  and  one  six-pounder  (both  from 
Federal  Hill),  and  you  will  have  left  two  howitzers  and  one  good  rifled 
piece,  besides  having  a  much  better  permanent  armament  than  there  is 
here.  Yours  truly, 

P.  A.  PORTER, 
Colonel  Eighth  New  York  Volunteer  Artillery,  Commanding  Fort  Marshall, 

Messengers,  meanwhile,  brought  news  of  the  daily  pro 
gress  of  Lee  into  Pennsylvania,  and  evidences  that  railroads 


THE    MARYLAND    CAMPAIGN   OF   1863.  315 

and  telegraphs  were  at  the  enemy's  mercy.  Now  the  news 
was  that  Carlisle  had  been  evacuated;  now  that  York 
had  been  surrendered  to  Early,  who  thereupon  had  levied 
$  100,000  tribute  and  a  plentiful  supply  of  beef,  bacon,  bread, 
boots,  and  what  not  of  food  and  clothing,  upon  the  borough. 
How  many  days'  marches  was  the  enemy  distant  ?  This 
was  the  general  inquiry.  Here  are  some  of  the  telegrams 
sent  to  the  commanding  officer  of  Federal  Hill :  — 

BALTIMORE  OFFICE. 
COLONEL  M.  LEFFERTS,  —  Following  just  received.    Special  despatch 

to  Philadelphia  Bulletin  :  — 

YORK,  June  27,  1  P.  M. 

Nothing  has  heen  heard  yet  of  Jennings's  regiment.  The  attack  on  them 
commenced  ahout  three  yesterday  afternoon,  by  a  large  cavalry  force,  and  con 
tinued  to  the  last  accounts.  The  loss  is  not  known ;  but  it  is  reported  that  a 
number  were  taken  prisoners. 

HANOVER  JUNCTION,  June  27, 1  P.  M. 

Telegraphic   communication   with   Hanover  Junction   ceased   a   half-hour 
since ;  the  inference  is  that  the  Rebels  are  there." 
Respectfully, 

A.  WILSON,  JR. 

Following  just  received  for  Associated  Press  :  — 

HARRISKURG,  June  28, 1  p.  M. 

A  conflict  is  now  going  on  in  this  vicinity,  and  the  cannonading  can  be 
heard  here.     No  particulars  have  yet  been  received. 
Respectfully, 

J.  F.  MATTINGLEY. 

At  length,  on  the  night  of  the  29th  of  June,  the  climax 
of  the  excitement  was  reached.  At  sunrise  of  that  day, 
Lee,  calling  back  his  cavalry  advance  'from  York  and  Car 
lisle,  sent  it  sweeping  along  the  roads  leading  to  Baltimore. 
By  nightfall,  the  rumor  of  this  coming  whirlwind  had 
startled  the  people.  It  was  even  alleged  that  a  body  of 
Confederate  horse  had  already  made  their  appearance  on 
the  outskirts  of  the  city,  aiming  to  enter  under  cover  of  the 
night.  Be  this  as  it  may,  at  midnight  General  Schenck 
sent  word  to  the  various  forts  that  the  enemy  was  upon 
them,  and  directing  them  to  prepare  for  immediate  attack. 


316  HISTORY    OF    THE    SEVENTH    REGIMENT. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SECOND  SEPARATE  BRIGADE,  EIGHTH  ARMY  CORPS, 
DEFENCES  OF  BALTIMORE,  FORT  MCHENRY,  MD.,  June  29,  Ifc63. 

COLONEL  M.  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  Fort  Federal  Hill. 

SIR, —  I  am  instructed  by  the  Commanding  General  to  inform  you 
that  there  is  evidence  we  are  about  to  be  attacked.  You  will  imme 
diately  prepare. 

Our  information  is  direct  from  head-quarters  Eighth  Army  Corps. 
I  am,  Colonel,  with  much  respect, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

E.  W.  ANDREWS, 
Captain  a/nd  A.  A.  A.  A.  General. 

At  the  same  moment,  in  that  subtle,  instinctive  percep 
tion  of  gathering  danger  which  is  often  to  be  observed 
among  inhabitants  of  menaced  places,  the  citizens  rose  in 
alarm.  Neighbors  aroused  neighbors ;  the  startling,  omi 
nous  clang  of  heavy  bells  shook  the  church-steeples  and 
vibrated  in  the  midnight  air  ;  three  rockets  from  McHenry, 
three  from  Marshall,  three  from  Federal  Hill,  shot  into,  the 
dark  sky.  And  as  bells  rang,  and  signal-rockets  streamed 
into  the  heavens,  and  the  long  roll  of  drums  echoed 
from  fort  to  fort,  garrisons  sprang  to  arms,  artillerists 
stood  in  order  to  their  guns,  the  citizens  thronged  to 
their  barricades  or  lined  the  hasty  breastworks  on  the  high 
ways,  while  within  the  forts  sergeants  were  sharply  calling 
the  rolls  of  companies,  and  in  the  streets  a  half-subdued 
murmur  of  multitudes  ran  like  a  rumbling  accompaniment. 
"  The  midnight  brought  the  signal-sound  of  strife." 

"  The  beat  of  the  alarming  drum 
Roused  up  the  soldier  ere  the  morning  star; 
While  thronged  the  citizens  with  terror  dumb, 
Or  whispering,  with  white  lips,  '  The  foe  !  they  come !  they  come  ! '  " 

But  fate  had  ordained  another  day  and  another  field  for 
the  supreme  arbitrament  of  arms.  In  that  mysterious  or 
dering  of  events,  which,  for  want  of  better  phrase  to  ex 
press  our  ignorance,  we  call  the  "  chance  of  war,"  the  two 
great  armies  of  North  and  South  were,  without  the  precise 
determination  of  either  commander,  swiftly  approaching  on 


THE   MARYLAND    CAMPAIGN    OF   1863.  317 

lines  which  made  a  collision  inevitable  at  Gettysburg. 
Meade  had  succeeded  Hooker  in  the  command  of  the  Army 
of  the  Potomac,  and,  in  place  of  continuing  his  predeces 
sor's  policy  of  gaining  Lee's  rear,  abandoned  the  westward 
march,  and  moved  directly  northward  with  his  whole  force, 
to  throw  down  forthwith  the  gage  of  battle.  Ignorant  alike 
of  the  change  of  commanders  and  the  change  of  policy,  Lee 
continued  his  eastward  march.  So  it  fell  out  that  on  the 
same  early  morning,  that  of  the  29th  June,  both  armies 
started  together,  both  towards  each  other,  and  yet  each  in 
the  belief  that  the  other  was  moving  away.  Lee  moved  east- 
ward  because  he  thought  his  adversary  was  moving  west 
ward,  Meade  moved  northward  because  he  believed  Lee 
was  likewise  marching  to  the  north.  Tims  the  fortune  of 
Baltimore,  as  it  turned  out,  was  not  decided  in  its  own 
streets,  but  its  fate,  the  fate  of  Washington,  nay,  the  fate 
of  the  Union,  was  put  at  hazard  on  the  field  of  Gettysburg. 

Not  until  the  4th  of  July,  amidst  their  national  festivi 
ties,  did  the  little  garrison  at  Fort  Federal  Hill  receive  the 
full  tidings  of  what  their  comrades  at  the  front  had  wrought 
at  Gettysburg.  Nevertheless,  the  afternoon  before,  they 
got,  in  the  shape  of  a  thousand  prisoners  from  that  three 
days'  field,  a  sort  of  instalment  of  its  fruits,  — a  token  of 
the  victory  whereof  the  next  morning  brought  assurance. 
These  prisoners  were  sent  to  Fort  McHenry,  and,  as  its 
garrison  was  small,  the  Seventh,  as  usual,  was  called  upon 
for  help. 

An  hour  before  midnight  of  July  3d  an  order  from  Gen 
eral  Morris  was  received,  ordering  the  detail  of  a  company 
to  report  forthwith  at  Fort  McHenry  with  knapsacks  and 
blankets.  Captain  Clark,  of  the  Second  Company,  with  a 
force  of  two  sergeants,  two  corporals,  and  fifty  privates,  was 
detailed  for  this  purpose,  and  reached  the  fort  at  midnight. 
The  prisoners  (except  .fifty-two  officers  confined  within) 


318  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

slept  on  the  greensward  of  the  outer  fort.  Next  morning 
Captain  Button,  of  the  Fifth  Company,  with  the  same  com 
plement,  relieved  the  guard. 

With  more  than  ordinary  enthusiasm,  next  day,  was  the 
national  anniversary  celebrated.  There  were  extra  luxu 
ries  at  the  company  dinners,  with  patriotic  songs,  speeches, 
and  toasts  ;  and,  under  charge  of  Captain  Easton,  a  national 
salute  in  honor  of  the  day  was  fired  at  meridian  in  obe 
dience  to  brigade  orders.  The  good  news  from  Gettysburg 
made  all  hearts  rejoice  ;  not  so  much  that  Baltimore  was 
safe  (though,  with  a  Union  defeat  the  Confederate  flag 
must  certainly  have  waved  over  it),  as  that  the  country 
was  safe,  and  the  whelming  tide  of  invasion  turned. 

Suspension  of  all  but  unavoidable  military  duties  had 
been  the  order  for  the  holiday  ;  but  it  happened  that  many 
extra  services  were  required.  The  Fifth  Company  was  on 
duty  at  Fort  McHenry,  guarding  the  prisoners.  The  Sec 
ond,  on  being  relieved,  was  ordered  to  furnish  four  non 
commissioned  officers  and  forty-five  men  to  proceed  to  Fort 
Delaware,  orders  from  corps  head-quarters  to  "  detail  a 
company  "  for  this  purpose  having  just  been  received.  This 
detachment,  under  Lieutenant  Palmer,  proceeded  by  steam 
er  from  Fort  McHenry,  in  charge  of  the  fifty-two  captured 
officers,  among  whom  was  General  Archer.  Returning 
next  day  to  Fort  McHenry,  it  was  again  despatched  to  Fort 
Delaware  with  four  hundred  and  fifty  Confederate  rank 
and  file.  Next,  towards  evening  of  the  4th,  came  an  order 
for  two  companies  to  guard  the  Northern  Central  Railroad 
Depot  in  Calvert  Street,  and  to  man  the  litters  of  the  Get 
tysburg  wounded  brought  by  the  train  from  Westminster. 
A  detachment  for  this  purpose  was  made  up  from  Company 
I,  Captain  Easton;  Company  D,  Lieutenant  Commanding 
Everdell ;  and  the  residue  of  Company  B  not  detached,  Cap 
tain  Clark,  —  all  under  command  of  the  latter  officer.  The 
long  train  reached  the  station  after  midnight.  The  Balti- 


THE  MARYLAND   CAMPAIGN   OF   1863.  319 

more  Union  Relief  Association  supplied  refreshments  for 
the  stout-hearted,  suffering  heroes,  and  the  Seventh  aided 
them  from  the  cars  to  the  ambulances  which  took  them 
thence  to  the  hospitals,  or  accompanied  them  to  the  Phila 
delphia  train.  It  was  dawn  when  the  kindly  work  was 
done.  The  medical  director,  Surgeon  Simpson,  U.  S.  A., 
promptly  requested  of  Colonel  Lefferts  that  a  like  number 
of  the  regiment  might  be  held  for  similar  duty  when  called 
for. 

On  the  5th  of  July  a  company  was  called  for  from  corps 
head-quarters  to  proceed  to  Fort  McHenry  with  knapsacks, 
blankets,  and  a  day's  rations,  to  perform  guard  duty  over 
one  thousand  prisoners  of  war  just  received  at  that  post. 
Lieutenant  Felt,  commanding  the  Seventh  Company,  was 
ordered  to  proceed  thither  with  his  command,  Quarter 
master  McClenachan  furnishing  transportation. 

This  was  the  last  of  the  Seventh  Regiment's  duties  at 
Baltimore.  Its  scene  of  action  was  to  be  suddenly  shifted. 
As  unexpectedly  as  it  had  been  sent  thither,  it  was  now  or 
dered  away. 


320 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


CHAPTER    XVII. 


AT      FREDERICK  . 

ETTYSBURG  had  been 
fought  and  won.  Lee  was  in 
flight,  Meade  pursuing.  Such 
were  the  tidings  of  Sunday, 
the  5th  ;  and  all  the  church- 
bells  of  the  North  pealed  with 
thanksgiving,  and  all  the 
church-bells  of  the  South 
tolled  with  lamentation. 

Near  midnight  came  a 
courier  from  corps  head-quar 
ters,  with  startling  and  per 
emptory  orders.  The  regi 
ment  was  detached  from  the 
Second  Separate  Brigade 
(General  Morris),  and  as 
signed  to  the  Provisional 
Brigade,  General  Briggs.  It  was  ordered  to  march  forth 
with  to  Frederick,  Maryland  ;  and  such  was  the  urgency, 
that  only  blankets,  overcoats,  haversacks,  and  canteens 
were  to  be  taken  (light  marching  order),  while  baggage^ 
camp  equipage,  and  knapsacks  were  to  be  left  at  Fort  Fed 
eral  Hill.  Each  man  was  to  carry  three  days'  cooked  ra 
tions,  with  sixty  rounds  of  ammunition,  the  cartridge- 
boxes  full,  and  twenty  extra  rounds  on  the  person.  The 
following  was  the  order  :  — 


PI 


I 


AT   FREDERICK.  321 

SPECIAL  ORDER  No.  180. 
HEAD-QUARTERS  MIDDLE  DEPARTMENT,  EIGHTH  ARMY  CORPS, 

BALTIMORE,  MD.,  July  5, 1863. 

The  Seventh  Regiment  New  York  State  Militia  is  detached  from  the 
Second  Separate  Brigade,  and  is  assigned  to  the  command  of  Brigadier- 
General  Briggs. 

The  regiment  will  proceed  without  delay  to  Frederick  City,  Mary 
land.  They  will  go  in  light  marching  order,  taking  with  them  only 
their  blankets,  overcoats,  haversacks,  and  canteens.  They  will  be  pro 
vided  with  three  days'  cooked  rations  and  with  sixty  rounds  of  ammuni 
tion,  forty  in  their  cartridge-boxes  and  twenty  on  their  person. 

The  baggage  and  camp  equipage  of  the  regiment  will  be  collected  to 
gether  and  left  at  Fort  Federal  Hill.  The  commanding  officer  of  the 
Seventh  Regiment  New  York  State  Militia  will  report  forthwith  to  Gen 
eral  Briggs  for  orders. 

By  order  Major-General  Schenck, 

W.  H.  CHESEBROUGH, 

Lieutenant- Colonel,  A.  A.  General. 

What  did  this  surprise  portend  ?  The  problem  was  soon 
solved.  Pursuit  was  the  new  word  of  ambition  with  the 
victorious  Army  of  the  Potomac,  and  all  available  forces 
were  to  be  turned  into  the  path  marked  out  by  its  com 
mander.  That  path  lay  through  Frederick. 

At  midnight,  therefore,  Colonel  Lefferts  issued  his  orders 
and  despatched  messengers  to  call  in  his  outposts.  Less 
than  a  third  of  the  regiment  was  on  duty  in  the  fort,  the 
residue  scattered  in  half  a  dozen  directions.  There  were 
detachments  at  Mud  Bridge,  Sweitzer  Bridge,  Locust  Point, 
Long  Bridge,  Bush  River,  and  Gunpowder  River ;  special 
details  in  Baltimore  and  at  Fort  McHenry  ;  a  company  ab 
sent  guarding  a  thousand  prisoners,  and  another  on  similar 
duty  at  Fort  Monroe.  But,  although  two  of  the  regimental 
outposts  were  distant  respectively  nine  and  twelve  miles, 
they  were  called  in  in  season  to  move  with  the  regiment 
at  8,  A.  M.  The  details  of  the  Second  and  Seventh  Com 
panies,  under  Lieutenants  Palmer  and  Felt,  absent  at  Fort 
Monroe,  rejoined  the  regiment,  on  the  7th,  at  Frederick. 

Having  reported  to  the  new  brigade  commander,  General 

21 


322  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Briggs,  Colonel  Lefferts  was  directed  by  that  officer  to  move 
forthwith  to  the  Mount  Clare  station,  in  pursuance  of  the 
following  order :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  PROVISIONAL  BRIGADE,  EIGHTH  ARMY  CORPS, 

July  6,  1863. 

Colonel  Lefferts,  commanding  Seventh  Regiment,  1ST.  G.,  of  the 
State  of  New  York,  having  reported  to  these  head-quarters  for  orders, 
will  move  with  his  command  at  once  to  the  Mount  Clare  station  of  the 
Baltimore  and  Ohio  Railroad,  where  he  will  await  further  orders. 

H.  S.  BRIGGS, 

Brigadier-  General  Commanding. 

With  these  preparations  the  night  was  busy.  All  camp 
property  was  carefully  stored,  and  a  guard  of  invalids 
mounted  over  it.  At  8,  A.  M.,  two  fine  regiments,  the  Fifty- 
Fifth  and  Sixty-Ninth  New  York  State  Militia,  designated 
to  relieve  the  Seventh,  marched  into  Fort  Federal  Hill,  and 
the  Seventh  marched  out.  In  a  drenching  rain,  it  proceeded 
to  Mount  Clare  station.  There  already  were  collected 
other  regiments  of  the  brigade,  comprising  both  infantry 
and  artillery.  Aids  were  hurrying  to  and  fro  with  orders  ; 
and  soon  came  the  turn  of  the  Seventh  to  embark  on  the 
cars  prepared  for  it.  Then  the  train  moved  slowly,  and  with 
many  delays,  onward  through  a  wild  and  picturesque  re 
gion,  to  Monocacy  Junction.  "  About  noon,"  says  one  ac 
count,  "  the  weather,  which  had  been  stormy  and  unpleas 
ant,  because  clear  and  beautiful,  and  the  men,  from  the 
tops  of  the  cars,  enjoyed  the  wild  and  romantic  scenery  for 
which  that  region  is  so  famous ;  passing  through  hand 
some  manufacturing  villages,  and  greeted  everywhere  with 
great  enthusiasm."  At  Monocacy  Junction,  General  Briggs 
halted  his  brigade,  and  informed  Colonel  LefTerts  that  the 
regiment  would  bivouac  for  the  night.  A  wheat-field  lay  in 
friendly  and  inviting  neighborhood ;  and  thence  gathering 
straw  for  rude  pallets,  the  tired  regiment  stretched  out, 
some  in  the  cars,  some  on  the  roadside,  and  sought  to  make 
up  for  many  nights'  rest  broken  in  the  past,  and  others  ap- 


AT   FREDERICK.  323 

parently  likely  to  be  broken  in  the  unknown  future.  Not- 
withstanding  the  orders  to  carry  nothing  but  blankets  and 
haversacks,  Colonel  Lefferts  took  the  responsibility  of  in 
structing  that  knapsacks  should  be  taken  ;  and  well  he  did, 
as  their  contents  were  greatly  needed  at  Frederick. 

During  these  two  days,  great  military  events  had  oc 
curred.  Let  us  briefly  note  how  they  came  to  pass.  On  the 
morning  of  the  4th  of  July,  Lee,  reading  aright  the  moral 
of  Gettysburg,  drew  in  his  flanks,  threw  up  breastworks, 
and,  under  cover  of  his  defensive  position,  dismissed  his 
immense  trains  to  the  Potomac.  The  reconnoissances 
made  by  his  adversary  that  day  did  not  disclose  his  pur 
pose  ;  and  accordingly,  under  cover  of  the  night,  he  moved 
his  main  army  down  the  Fairfield  Road,  and  was  gone.  By 
the  morning  of  the  7th  of  July,  Lee's  whole  army  was  at 
Hagerstown. 

Morning  of  the  7th  of  July  found,  also,  the  van  of  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac  at  Frederick,  and  the  main  body 
hastening  thither.  For,  the  dilemma  whether  to  hang  di 
rectly  upon  the  enemy's  rear,  or  to  make  a  flank  movement 
east  of  the  South  Mountain  by  way  of  Frederick,  had  been 
resolved  in  the  choice  of  the  latter  alternative.  Thus  it 
happened  that,  while  Lee  was  retreating  directly  through 
the  Cumberland  Valley,  Meade  was  sweeping  around  on 
the  east  side  of  the  mountains. 

What  part  in  this  chase  the  Seventh  Regiment  might 
take  was  an  exciting  speculation,  as  it  lay  on  the  night  of 
the  6th  July  at  Monocacy  Junction.  The  troops  then  on 
the  road  and  in  the  neighborhood  of  Frederick,  under  com 
mand  of  General  French,  generally  expected  an  order  to 
proceed  again  directly  to  Harper's  Ferry,  whence  they  had 
been  recalled  just  before  Gettysburg ;  and,  indeed,  a  part 
of  them  were  ordered  thither.  However,  dawn  of  the  7th 
of  July  brought  to  Colonel  Lefferts  definite  orders  from 
General  Briggs :  — 


324  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  MONOCACY  JUNCTION,  July  7, 1863. 
COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  Seventh  New  York. 

COLONEL,  —  You  will  march  without  delay  to  Frederick  City  with 
your  command,  and  report  to  General  French  for  orders. 
By  order  of  Major- General  H.  S.  Briggs, 

BYRON  PORTER,  Captain  and  A.  A.  G. 

Accordingly,  at  eight  o'clock  of  a  sultry  July  day,  the 
regiment  left  the  Junction,  and  moved  along  the  broad 
turnpike  to  Frederick  City,  four  miles  distant. 

Frederick  and  all  the  magnificent  and  picturesque  re 
gion  about  it  was,  at  this  period,  full  of  the  signs  of  war. 
Corps  and  armies  had  again  and  again  marched  and  coun 
termarched  through  it,  military  hospitals  had  been  estab 
lished  in  its  environs,  and  lately  ten  thousand  men  had 
encamped  for  many  days  there.  As  the  regiment  entered, 
it  had  the  air  of  a  permanent  camp  or  of  a  garrison  town. 
Now  a  party  of  prisoners  was  encountered,  now  a  squad  of 
convalescents  ;  the  huge  army  trains  rumbled  and  ambu 
lances  rattled  through  the  streets,  foretelling  the  coming 
of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  ;  aids  and  messengers  spurred 
hither  and  thither ;  the  yellow  trimmings  of  the  jaunty 
cavalry  jacket  mingled  with  infantry  blue  and  artillery 
crimson :  everywhere  were  soldiers.  Here,  of  late,  Gen 
eral  French  had  held  command.  Withdrawn  by  Meade, 
with  his  eleven  thousand  men,  from  Maryland  Heights, 
when  that  officer  succeeded  Hooker,  he  was  left  with  seven 
thousand  at  Frederick,  while  the  great  armies  fought  at 
Gettysburg.  To  Frederick,  also,  came  other  reinforce 
ments,  reporting  to  General  French,  among  which,  as  we 
have  seen,  was  the  Seventh  Regiment.  During  the  after 
noon  of  the  same  day,  July  7th,  General  Meade  reached 
Frederick,  and  there  established  his  head-quarters ;  and 
one  of  his  first  acts  was  to  issue  an  order,  declaring  that 
"  the  troops  at  present  under  the  orders  of  Major-General 
French  are  transferred  to  the  Third  Army  Corps. "  This 


AT   FREDERICK.  325 

corps  had,  during  the  battle  of  Gettysburg,  been  under  the 
command  of  General  Sickles.  It  was  now  reinforced  by 
French's  large  division,  on  being  placed  under  the  latter 
officer.  The  Seventh  Regiment  was  attached  to  the  Third 
Division  of  the  Third  Corps,  —  the  "blue  diamond"  its 
corps  and  division  badge.  Such  was  the  way  in  which  tho 
Seventh,  at  last,  and  most  unexpectedly,  became  a  part  of 
the  grand  Army  of  the  Potomac.  The  following  was  the 
official  order :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS  ARMY  OF  THE  POTOMAC, 
FREDERICK,  July  7,  1863. 

I.    The  troops  at  present  under  the  orders  of  Major-General  French 
are  transferred  to  the  Third  Army  Corps,  which  will  be  commanded  by 
General  French.     The  detachment  sent  to  Maryland  Heights  will  not, 
however,  join  the  corps  until  further  orders. 
By  command  of  Major-General  Meade, 

S.  WILLIAMS, 
Assistant  Adjutant- General. 

On  the  morning  of  the  7th  of  July,  then,  as  we  have  said, 
the  Confederate  Army  was  at  Hagerstown,  and  the  Union 
advance  had  appeared  at  Frederick.  Colonel  Lefferts  re 
porting  at  11,  A.  M.,  to  General  French,  was  immediately 
intrusted  with  the  duty  of  picketing  the  road  leading  to 
Hagerstown  and  the  turnpike  leading  to  Emmetsburg.  He 
at  once  detailed  the  Ninth  Company  to  the  former  duty, 
and  the  Second  Company  to  the  latter  ;  with  the  rest  of 
the  regiment  he  then  went  into  camp  outside  the  city,  half 
a  mile  to  the  southwest  of  it,  on  the  Harper's  Ferry  Road. 

The  important  command  of  Frederick  City  and  Monoca- 
cy  Junction,  with  their  depots,  storehouses,  camps,  hospitals, 
their  important  bridges,  roads,  and  approaches,  had  hither 
to,  by  order  of  General  Meade,  been  vested  in  Major-Gen- 
eral  French,  who  also  had  command  of  the  seven  thou 
sand  or  more  troops  in  and  around  Frederick.  But  on 
his  appointment  to  the  command  of  the  Third  Corps,  it 
became  necessary  to  turn  over  that  of  Frederick,  that  he 


326  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

might  put  himself  on  the  march  with  his  corps.  He  selected 
as  his  successor  Colonel  Lefferts ;  and,  the  morning  after 
his  own  new  assignment  to  command,  issued  orders,  turn 
ing  over  the  post  to  him.  As  a  force  for  his  purposes. 
General  French  at  the  same  time  detached  Colonel  Lef- 
ferts's  own  regiment  to  remain  on  special  duty,  besides  giv 
ing  him  command  of  the  various  regiments  and  parts  of 
regiments  to  be  left  behind  at  Frederick,  including  infantry, 
cavalry,  and  several  batteries  of  artillery. 

Always  an  important  post  by  reason  of  the  military  sup 
plies  in  store,  the  camps,  and  the  hospitals,  as  well  as  from 
the  strategic  importance  of  Monocacy  Junction,  Frederick 
had  now  temporarily  a  special  importance  by  the  concentra 
tion  of  the  whole  Union  Army  there.  The  picket  com 
panies  of  the  Seventh,  in  marching  out  to  their  posts  on 
Tuesday,  had  met  the  van  of  this  great  host,  —  its  artillery 
reserve  and  immense  trains  of  ammunition  and  supplies. 
From  that  time  forward,  for  eight -and -forty  hours,  the 
mighty  stream  did  not  cease  to  flow.  To  properly  police 
the  city  during  the  passage  of  friends,  and  to  picket  the 
outposts  during  the  close  proximity  of  foes,  was  the  task 
assigned  to  Colonel  Lefferts. 

On  the  morning  of  the  8th  of  July,  Colonel  Lefferts  as 
sumed  command  of  the  city  of  Frederick,  in  the  following 
order : — 

GENERAL   ORDER  No.  1. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  FREDERICK  CITY,  MD.,  July  8,  1863. 

By  authority  of  Major-General  French,  commanding  Third  Army 
Corps,  United  States  Volunteers,  the  undersigned  assumes  command  of 
the  city  of  Frederick,  Maryland. 

All  instructions  heretofore  issued,  having  reference  to  the  police  regu 
lations  of  the  city,  will  continue  to  be  observed  until  countermanded. 

Major  Cole,  Maryland  cavalry,  will  continue  to  act  as  Provost-Mar 
shal. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS, 
Colonel  Seventh  Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  T.,  and  Commanding  Post. 


AT   FREDERICK.  327 

He  proceeded  to  establish  his  head-quarters  in  the  city, 
and  to  dispose  his  force  at  the  points  to  be  guarded.  Gen 
eral  French  had  taken  nearly  all  his  own  troops,  but  some 
were  still  left  at  Frederick,  and  others  were  added.* 

Of  the  outposts,  the  most  important  was  Monocacy  Junc 
tion,  four  miles  south  of  the  city.  At  this  point  the  Mono 
cacy,  a  considerable  tributary  of  the  Potomac,  is  crossed 
both  by  the  Baltimore  and  Ohio  Railroad  and  the  turnpike 
leading  to  Washington  and  to  Harper's  Ferry.  Monocacy 
was  now  also  the  main  depot  for  the  Army  of  the  Potomac, 
Avith  troops  and  supplies  continually  moving  through  it  by 
rail  and  pike.  The  great  railroad  bridge  had  been  once 
burnt  by  the  enemy.  The  garrison  of  the  post  now  consisted 
of  one  company  of  cavalry,  one  of  infantry  (afterwards  in 
creased  to  two),  and  a  section  of  artillery.  The  cavalry 
picketed  the  region  between  the  Monocacy  and  the  Potomac, 
the  infantry  guarded  both  bridges,  and  the  two  pieces  of 
artillery,  planted  on  a  commanding  hill,  swept  the  road  and 
railroad  crossings.  The  latter  were  very  important  to  the 
communications  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  for  even  the 
crazy  turnpike  bridge  was  now  in  constant  requisition,  and 
crowded  with  wagons  and  men.  Two  large  block-houses, 
one  on  either  bank  of  the  river,  furnished  additional  protec 
tion  to  the  bridges,  and  shelter  to  their  garrison. 

To  this  post  Colonel  Lefferts  ordered  the  First  Company 
of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  Captain  Bensel  commanding. 
To  Captain  Bensel,  as  commandant  of  the  post,  the  cavalry 
and  artillery  detachments  reported  ;  a  section  of  Battery  I, 

*  HEAD-QUARTERS  ARTILLERY  RESERVE,  FREDERICK,  MD.,  July  3, 1863. 
Captain  Sterling  is  hereby  relieved  from  duty  with  the  Artillery  Reserve,  and 
will  report  with  his  battery  (Second  Connecticut)  to  Colonel  Lefferts,  Seventh 
New  York  State  Militia,  for  duty. 

By  direction  of  General  Meade,  the  section  of  Captain  Ranke's  battery,  with 
his  command,  is  temporarily  attached  to  Captain  Sterling's  command. 
By  command  of  Brigadier-General  R.  0.  Tyler, 

C.  H.  WHITTLESEY,  Captain  and  A.  A.  G. 


328  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Fifth  United  States  Artillery,  Lieutenant  McConnell  com 
manding,  was  sent  to  Captain  Bensel  for  the  protection  of 
the  bridges. 

HEAD-QUARTEKS,  FREDERICK  CITY,  July  8, 1863. 

LIEUTENANT  C.  C.  McCoNNELL,  Commanding  Battery  I,  Fifth  Artillery. 
SIR,  —  You  will  detail  one  section  of  your  battery,  with  competent 
force,  to  report  to  Captain  Bensel,  in  charge  of  picket  at  Monocacy 
Junction.  Your  guns  will  be  so  posted  as  to  protect  the  railroad  bridge 
at  that  point. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Colonel  Commanding. 

In  addition  to  this  obvious  duty,  the  commanding  officer 
at  Monocacy  was  directed  to  place  pickets  on  the  approaches 
to  the  town  (both  the  turnpike  and  a  branch  railroad  connect 
Monocacy  witli  Frederick) ,  to  keep  a  vigilant  watch  for  spies 
and  deserters,  and  to  distinguish  and  give  notice  of  the  ap 
proach  of  expected  friends  as  well  as  of  enemies.  For  the 
rest,  Captain  Bensel  took  his  instructions  from  Major  Rolfe, 
who,  with  a  battalion  of  the  Fourteenth  Massachusetts 
Heavy  Artillery,  had  hitherto  commanded  the  post,  and 
whom  he  now  relieved.  The  following  orders  in  relation 
to  the  First  Company's  duty  will  be  interesting  :  — 

July  8,  half  past  one,  p.  M. 
CAPTAIN  TOKBETT,  A.  A   A.  G. 

CAPTAIN,  —  General  Meade  has  ordered  that  the  regiments  from  North 
Carolina  yet  to  come  up,  viz.  the  One  Hundred  and  Fifty-Eighth,  One 
Hundred  and  Sixty-Eighth,  One  Hundred  and  Seventy-First  Pennsylva 
nia  nine  months'  volunteers,  and  the  Forty-Third  Massachusetts,  are  to  go 
forward  to  Harper's  Ferry  after  they  have  provided  themselves  with  three 
days'  rations.  Please  direct  my  staff  to  follow  at  once  to  Harper's  Ferry. 
Very  respectfully,  &c., 

HENRY  M.  NAGLEE, 

Brigadier- General,  Commanding  Harper's  Ferry. 

(INDORSEMENT.) 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  FREDERICK  CITY,  July  8,  1863. 

Respectfully  referred  to  Colonel  Lefferts,  Seventh  New  York  Militia, 
commanding. 

By  order  of  Major-General  French, 

W.  F.  A.  TORBETT, 

Lieutenant,  A.  D.  C.,  and  A.  A.  A.  G. 


AT   FREDERICK.  329 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  FREDERICK,  July  8,  1863. 
CAPTAIN  W.  P.  BENSEL,  Monocacy  Junction. 

SIR,  —  I  enclose  you  copy  of  an  order  in  reference  to  certain  regi 
ments.  You  will  keep  a  vigilant  lookout  for  these  regiments,  and  show 
the  enclosed  to  the  commanding  officer.  You  will  also  call  upon  Colo 
nel  Porter,  Quartermaster,  and  inform  him  of  the  order,  as  these  regi 
ments  are  to  be  furnished  with  three  days'  rations. 

I  have  ordered  Lieutenant  Me  Council  to  report  to  you  with  one  sec 
tion  of  his  battery.  You  are  to  take  especial  care  of  the  railroad  bridge, 
and  glace  pickets  on  the  approaches  to  the  town. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS, 

Colonel  Seventh  Regiment  N.  T.  S.  M.,  and  Commanding  Post. 

Soon  after,  Colonel  Lefferts  relieved  Lieutenant  McCon- 
nel  at  Monocacy  in  the  following  order :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  FREDERICK,  July  9,  1863. 

Captain  Sterling,  commanding  Second  Connecticut  Battery,  will  di 
rect  Captain  Ranke  with  his  section  of  battery  to  relieve  Lieutenant 
McConnell,  to-morrow  morning,  at  Monocacy  Junction.  Lieutenant 
McConnell  will  rejoin  his  command  near  Frederick  City,  and  report  to 
Captain  Sterling. 

By  order  of 

COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  Post. 

Meanwhile,  Lieutenant-Colonel  Price  had  succeeded  tem 
porarily  to  the  command  of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  and 
issued  the  following  order :  — 

GENERAL  ORDER  No.  19. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT  N.  Y.  S.  M., 
IN  CAMP,  NEAR  FREDERICK,  MD.,  July  9,  1863. 

By  command  of  the  Major-General  commanding  the  Army  of  the  Po 
tomac,  this  regiment  has  been  attached  to  the  Third  Army  Corps,  and 
by  command  of  Major-General  French  of  said  Third  Corps,  Colonel  Mar 
shall  Lefferts  has  been  assigned  to  command  of  the  defences  in  and 
around  Frederick,  with  head-quarters  at  Frederick  City. 

Lieutenant-Colonel  Price  directs  that  all  standing  orders  issued  by 
Colonel  Lefferts  remain  in  full  force  and  effect. 

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL  JAS.  PRICE, 

Commanding  Seventh  Regiment. 

The  main  body  of  the  regiment  continued  to  occupy  the 


330  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

camp  originally  assigned  to  it  by  General  French.  The 
ground  had  been  selected  long  before,  for  reasons  of  military 
convenience,  being  an  open  field  about  half  a  mile  south 
west  of  the  city.  Its  long  occupation,  however,  by  other 
regiments,  had  cut  up  the  ground,  and  the  heavy  storms 
had  made  it  little  better  than  a  quagmire.  Had  the  regi 
ment  possessed  its  tents,  it  might  have  been  practicable  to 
pitch  them  in  another  locality ;  but  as  all  its  camp  equipage 
and  baggage  were  at  Fort  Federal  Hill,  it  only  remained  to 
put  up  with  the  local  conveniences  of  the  Frederick  camp 
ing-ground.  These  consisted  of  a  few  fence-rails.  And 
with  these  rails,  together  with  straw  made  filthy  by  long 
service,  rude  tents  were  constructed, —  the  only  shelter. 
The  Colonel's  head-quarters  were  distinguished  by  a  few 
boards  instead  of  rails.  This  delectable  spot  was  styled  in 
official  documents  "Camp  near  Frederick";  but  unoffi 
cially  it  was  known  as  "  Camp  Misery  "  ;  and  only  the  con 
sciousness  that,  under  the  circumstances,  it  was  the  best 
that  could  possibly  be  had,  made  it  endurable.  Storms 
made  the  leaky  huts  wet,  and  the  whole  camp  was  so  much 
mire. 

Fortunately,  however,  a  large  part  of  the  regiment  was 
always  absent  from  camp  on  outpost  duty,  and  this  latter 
was  neither  monotonous  nor  disagreeable.  Colonel  Lef- 
ferts  also  made  continual  calls  upon  the  regiment  for  vari 
ous  services  of  importance  in  his  new  command ;  we  shall 
only  need,  henceforth,  in  this  narrative,  to  refer  to  such  of 
the  Colonel's  duties  as  were  directly  connected  with  the 
Seventh  Regiment. 

The  First  Company,  as  has  been  seen,  had  been  assigned 
to  Monocacy  Junction.  Here  the  duty  was  so  agreeably 
exciting,  the  camp-life  so  pleasant,  the  scenery  so  magnifi 
cent,  and  all  the  surroundings  of  service  so  delightful,  as 
to  make  it  a  coveted  post.  Captain  Clark,  whose  company 
relieved  the  First,  after  some  days,  says  :  "  Upon  their  ar- 


AT   FREDERICK.  331 

rival,  on  Saturday  morning,  the  members  of  the  Second 
Company  pitched  their  tents  about  midway  between  the  two 
bridges,  upon  a  dry  and  elevated  piece  of  ground,  triangu 
lar  in  form,  in  the  centre  of  which  was  the  block-house,  and 
the  sides  of  which  were  the  railroad,  the  turnpike,  and  the 
Monocacy  River.  Some  preferred  to  locate  within  the 
block-house,  and  one  eccentric  party,  in  defiance  of  sun, 
wind,  and  storm,  pitched  their  tent  upon  the  top  of  it. 
One  third  of  the  company  was  detailed  for  twenty-four 
hours  to  guard  the  bridges  and  to  watch  the  road  beyond, 
and  the  remainder  spent  the  day  in  fitting  up  their  new 
quarters,  or  bathing  in  the  river,  or  with  the  usual  amuse 
ments  and  employments  of  camp-life.  A  more  interesting 
and  romantic  location  for  a  camp  could  not  be  found  in 
many  a  league,  and  from  the  eminence  occupied  by  the 
Second  Company  the  eye  rested  upon  a  variety  of  scenery. 
There  were  mountains,  hills,  valleys,  and  plains;  broad, 
fertile,  and  highly  cultivated  fields,  rich  in  agricultural 
wealth  and  adorned  with  elegant  farm-houses  ;  and  lands 
so  rough  and  rugged  that  no  husbandman  would  attempt 
to  levy  tribute  upon  the  soil.  The  bright,  clear  waters  of 
the  Monocacy,  almost  concealed  by  luxuriant,  overhanging 
trees,  completed  this  diversified  and  charming  scene ;  but 
lest  the  place  might  become  dull  and  tedious  from  its  rural 
quietness,  the  movements  of  army-trains  by  rail  and  pike 
gave  life  and  animation  to  the  picture. 

"  On  Sunday,  Monocacy  was  visited  by  a  severe  rain 
storm,  by  which  the  river  was  suddenly  swollen  to  a  torrent, 
but  the  men  were  well  sheltered,  and  in  rain  or  in  sunshine 
were  contented  and  happy.  In  the  evening,  General  Schriver 
rode  out  from  Frederick  to  inspect  the  post,  and  while  ex 
pressing  himself  pleased  with  its  appearance  and  the  cor 
rect  performance  of  the  required  duty,  he  desired  the 
officers  to  impress  upon  "  the  gentlemen  of  the  Seventh  " 
the  military  importance  of  Monocacy,  and  the  necessity  of 


332  HISTOKY  OF  THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

constant  vigilance.  On  the  following  day,  the  Tenth  Com 
pany,  Lieutenant  Ray  commanding,  was  ordered  to  Mono- 
cacy  as  a  reinforcement  to  the  Second.  It  was  not  un 
reasonable  to  expect  a  cavalry  raid  upon  this  important 
point,  as  the  destruction  of  the  Monocacy  Bridge  would 
seriously  interrupt  the  communications  of  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac,  and  Captain  Clark  ordered  half  of  the  entire 
force  to  be  constantly  on  duty  at  the  bridges.  The  rain 
continued,  with  intervals  of  sunshine,  on  Monday  and 
Tuesday.  When  the  weather  was  fair,  the  men  amused 
themselves  with  target-firing,  bathing,  and  unsuccessful 
attempts  at  fishing.  Shooting  snakes  was  also  a  favorite 
amusement ;  but  Lieutenant  Ray  chanced  to  lodge  a  pistol- 
bullet  in  his  own  hand,  and  this  circumstance  rather  damp 
ened  the  ardor  of  the  amateur  sportsmen." 

The  Third  Company  was  soon  ordered  to  guard  the 
U.  S.  A.  General  Hospital  at  Frederick.  The  guard  pre 
viously  stationed  there  by  General  French  having  been 
suddenly  relieved  without  substitutes,  Assistant-Surgeon  R. 
J.  Weir,  the  officer  in  charge,  applied  for  a  force  of  from 
fifty  to  seventy-five  men.  The  Third  Company,  Captain 
Haws,  was  detailed  for  this  purpose.  Their  duties  were  light, 
but,  as  Surgeon  Weir's  application  urged,  were  "  rendered 
the  more  necessary  on  account  of  the  number  of  slightly 
wounded  prisoners  of  war  now  here."  There  were  eight 
posts  to  occupy,  and  quarters  were  provided  for  the  guard 
on  the  grounds.  The  following  were  the  orders  for  this 
company :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  FREDERICK  CITY,  July  9,  1S63. 

Lieutenant-Colonel  Price,  commanding  Seventh  Regiment  New  York 
State  Militia,  will  direct  the  Third  Company,  Captain  Haws,  of  his  com 
mand,  to  report  to  Assistant-Surgeon  Weir,  Frederick  Hospital,  for 
guard  duty,  without  unnecessary  delay.  They  will  draw  their  rations  from 
the  Regimental  Quartermaster. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS, 
Colonel  Stvenih  Regiment  New  York  St^te  Militia,  Commanding  Post. 


AT   FREDERICK.  333 

The  next  day,  July  10th,  the  Eighth  Company,  Captain 
Shumway,  was  ordered  to  head-quarters.  A  press  despatch 
says :  "  The  large  number  of  Union  Army  officers  luxuriat 
ing  around  the  hotels  of  Frederick  has  caused  Colonel 
Marshall  Lefferts,  Military  Governor,  to  establish  a  pa 
trol  guard  to  examine  the  passes  of  all  officers  found  in 
the  city,  and  those  absent  without  authority  from  their 
commands  are  placed  under  arrest." 

While  the  First,  Third,  and  Eighth  Companies  were  thus 
occupied,  the  Second  and  Ninth  Companies  continued  their 
pleasant  picket  duties  on  the  Emmettsburg  and  Hagerstown 
Roads.  The  main  station  of  the  Second  Company  was  in  a 
clover-field  just  north  of  the  city,  along  the  handsome  and 
capacious  Emmettsburg  Turnpike,  of  which,  with  the  fine 
fields  and  farm-houses  adjoining,  it  commanded  an  exten 
sive  view.  Comfortable  huts  were  constructed  forthwith 
from  a  pile  of  lumber  lying  in  a  neighboring  yard.  The 
guard  relieved  by  the  Second  Company  was  a  detach 
ment  of  the  Eighth  Maryland  Regiment.  Lieutenant  Smith, 
with  a  third  of  the  company,  was  stationed  at  the  advance 
picket  post,  half  a  mile  out  on  the  pike  ;  a  cavalry  outpost 
was  established  a  mile  or  two  beyond. 

"  That  part  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,"  says  the  "  His 
tory  of  the  Second  Company,"  "  which  passed  the  picket 
station  of  the  Second  Company,  and  entered  Frederick  by 
the  Emmettsburg  Pike,  consisted  of  the  Second,  Third,  and 
Twelfth  Corps.  On  account  of  the  excellence  and  the  supe 
riority  of  this  turnpike,  the  ammunition  and  quartermas 
ter's  trains  of  the  entire  army  also  passed  this  way.  The 
head  of  the  immense  column  reached  Frederick  on  the 
forenoon  of  Tuesday,  and  for  two  days  and  nights  a  steady 
and  uninterrupted  stream  flowed  by  of  soldiers,  artillery, 
and  army  wagons.  The  passage  of  this  grand  army,  and 
its  imposing  appearance,  can  never  be  forgotten.  Regi 
ments  of  infantry,  with  their  veterans  of  many  battles,  and 


334  HISTORY   OF  THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

their  soiled  and  tattered  banners,  marched  rapidly  by ;  ar 
tillery  in  vast  quantities,  and  of  every  variety,  from  the 
howitzer  to  the  heavy  siege  gun,  thundered  along ;  and  im 
mense  trains  of  wagons,  with  their  teams  of  six  mules  and 
their  negro  drivers,  moved  noisily  on,  all  hastening  for 
ward  to  intercept  the  retreating  Rebel  Army,  which  had 
been  so  severely  punished  at  Gettysburg.  The  soldiers 
were  in  fine  spirits,  and,  flushed  with  victory,  were  confi 
dent  that  they  were  about  to  deliver  the  death-blow  to  the 
Rebellion. 

"  As  the  picket  duty  of  the  Second  Company  was  nominal 
during  the  passage  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  its  mem 
bers  had  ample  time  and  a  capital  opportunity  to  witness 
the  imposing  pageant.  Their  neat  gray  uniforms  and  ap 
parent  leisure  were  constant  subjects  of  amusement  and 
badinage  to  the  passing  veterans.  c  How  are  you,  gray- 
backs  ? '  '  Where  did  you  get  your  new  clothes  ?  '  '  You  '11 
be  taken  for  Johnny  Rebs,'  and  other  amusing  salutations 
greeted  the  idle  spectators,  all  of  which  were  good-humor- 
edly  given  and  as  good-naturedly  received.  In  nearly 
every  regiment  there  were  former  members  of  the  Seventh, 
now  serving  the  country  as  officers  of  volunteers,  all  of 
whom  were  delighted  to  meet  their  old  comrades,  and 
halted  to  make  inquiries  after  friends  and  acquaintances, 
in  this  and  other  companies  of  the  regiment.  General  of 
ficers,  all  of  whom  seemed  familiar  with  the  name  and  his 
tory  of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  and  the  services  of  its  mem 
bers,  often  paused  to  make  some  kind  and  complimentary 
remarks.  Distinguished  among  them  was  the  gallant  Gen 
eral  Geary,  who  halted  his  division  to  give  '  three  rousing 
cheers  for  the  New  York  Seventh,'  to  which  the  Second 
Company  responded  with  cheers  for  General  Geary,  for  his 
division,  for  the  Second  Corps,  and  for  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac.  The  news  had  just  been  received  of  the  fall  of 
Vicksburg,  and  all  joined  in  the  shouts  of  joy,  threw  up 


AT   FREDERICK.  335 

their  caps,  and  cheered  for.  General  Grant  and  his  brave 
army. 

"  On  Tuesday  afternoon  rain  commenced  falling,  and  the 
storm  continued  without  much  interruption  during  the 
passage  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac.  The  fine  turnpike 
resembled  a  river  of  mud  and  water,  and  the  adjacent  fields, 
which  had  bloomed  with  rural  beauty,  were  fearfully  devas 
tated  by  the  incessant  movement  of  men,  horses,  and  wag 
ons.  On  Thursday  the  grand  army  had  passed,  the  weather 
became  clear  and  beautiful,  and  the  Second  Company,  after 
the  novel  and  exciting  scenes  of  the  last  two  days,  settled 
quietly  down  to  its  military  duties. 

"  The  Union  Army  having  left  Frederick,  it  now  became 
necessary  for  the  Second  Company  to  be  watchful  and 
vigilant,  lest  some  roving  band  of  Rebel  cavalry  should  pass 
around  to  the  rear,  and  dash  into  the  town.  It  was  ordered 
and  expected  to  oppose  any  such  attempt,  and,  if  finally 
overpowered,  to  fall  back  ujyon  the  town  and  join  the  regi 
ment.  Upon  the  cavalry  picket  stationed  a  mile  or  two  in 
advance,  and  upon  the  outpost  in  charge  of  Lieutenant 
Smith,  was  the  chief  responsibility  ;  but  the  other  members 
of  the  company  were  required  to  remain,  during  the  day, 
in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  their  post,  and  at  night  to 
sleep  in  their  clothes  and  upon  their  arms,  and  be  ready 
for  duty  at  a  moment's  notice.  On  one  occasion,  the  com 
pany,  having  been  warned  of  an  expected  cavalry  raid,  was 
alarmed  at  midnight  by  the  approach  of  a  large  body  of 
Union  troopers,  who  were  extremely  fortunate  in  escaping 
a  volley  of  musketry. 

"  During  the  passage  of  the  army,  provisions  were  at 
famine  prices,  and  to  purchase  milk,  bread,  and  eggs  re 
quired  a  long  purse  and  a  forbearing  temper.  It  was  also 
difficult  to  procure  the  regular  army  rations,  and  the  com 
pany  fared  roughly  during  its  first  two  days  of  picket  duty. 


336  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

The  army  gone,  provisions  became  more  plenty  ;  the  mem 
bers  of  the  company  proved  capital  foragers ;  and  with  the 
aid  of  a  barrel  of  fine  pork,  which  escaped  from  an  army 
wagon  and  was  forthwith  confiscated,  the  commissary  de 
partment  was  in  a  condition  of  comparative  abundance. 
An  adjacent  field,  in  which  army-trains  had  been  parked, 
afforded  rich  foraging-ground  after  their  departure.  Tents 
sufficient  to  shelter  the  whole  company  were  obtained ; 
kettles,  pans,  axes,  and  other  domestic  utensils  were  found 
in  abundance  ;  and  muskets,  sabres,  and  pistols  were  se 
cured  as  mementos  of  the  events  of  the  day,  and  of  the 
wastefulness  of  a  large  army  on  the  march.  Horses  and 
mules,  disabled  and  abandoned  by  the  army,  were  also 
abundant ;  and  so  many  were  captured  that  horseback-riding 
became  a  favorite  amusement,  and  fears  were  expressed  by 
some,  that  the  Second  Company  would  forget  its  light-in 
fantry  drill,  and  be  captivated  by  the  charms  of  the  cavalry 
service.  With  the  large  supply  of  horses  and  mules,  horse- 
racing  grew  into  popularity,  arid  dealings  in  horse-flesh 
were  not  uncommon.  The  price  of  these  unfortunate 
quadrupeds,  when  sold  to  countrymen  in  search  of  good 
bargains,  was  from  five  to  twenty  dollars. 

"  While  stationed  on  the  Emmettsburg  Pike,  the  com 
pany  was  visited  by  General  Shaler,  whose  brigade  passed 
through  the  South  Mountain  Valley,  about  ten  miles  west 
of  Frederick.  He  was  warmly  welcomed  by  the  members 
of  his  old  command,  who  rejoiced  to  see  him  in  such  fine 
health  and  spirits,  and  wearing  so  gracefully  his  well-earned 
laurels.  During  Thursday  and  Friday,  heavy  firing  was 
frequently  and  distinctly  heard  in  the  direction  of  Hagers- 
town,  where  Kilpatrick  and  Buford,  with  cavalry  and  light 
artillery,  were  constantly  annoying  the  enemy." 

A  great  spectacular  attraction  afforded  to  Camp  Misery 
was  the  body  of  the  spy  Richardson,  which  swung  from  a 
bough  near  by  three  days  and  nights.  This  fellow  had 


AT   FEEDERICK.  337 

often  visited  Fort  Federal  Hill  in  1862,  while  the  Seventh 
was  in  garrison  there,  under  a  pretence  of  selling  knick- 
knacks.  Colonel  Lefferts,  conceiving  that  his  carcass  had 
long  enough  added  to  the  natural  heauties  of  Camp  Misery, 
sent  orders  from  head-quarters,  on  the  10th,  to  have  it 
buried.  This  order  was  carried  into  effect  as  follows  :  — 

SPECIAL  ORDER  No.  29. 

IN  CAMP  NEAR  FREDERICK,  MD.,  July  10,  1863. 

By  order  of  Colonel  Lefferts,  commanding  post  Frederick  City,  the, 
body  of  the  spy  Richardson  is  to  be  buried. 

Captain  Rogers,  Company  K,  will  detail  one  sergeant  and  ten  men  to 
proceed  to  the  locust-tree  in  the  rear  of  the  camp  under  which  the 
body  now  lies  and  execute  the  order  promptly. 

JAMES  PRICE, 
Lieutenant-  Colonel  Commanding  Seventh  Regiment  New  York  State  Militia. 

(INDORSEMENT.) 

This  is  to  certify  that  the  body  of  the  spy  Richardson  was  decently 
interred  at  the  foot  of  the  tree  where  he  was  hung. 

SERGEANT  JAS.  BLEECKER, 

Tenth  Company,  Seventh  Regiment. 

On  the  10th  of  July,  Captain  Rogers,  of  the  Tenth  Com 
pany,  was  temporarily  attached  to  Lieutenant  McConnell's 
battery,  by  the  following  order  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  FREDERICK  CITY,  July  10,  1863. 

Captain  Rogers,  Company  K,  Seventh  Regiment  New  York  State 
Militia,  is  temporarily  attached  to  Battery  I,  Fifth  United  States  Ar 
tillery.  He  will  confer  with  Lieutenant  McConnell,  commanding  battery, 
upon  receipt  of  this  order. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  Post. 

On  the  llth,  Lieutenant-Colonel  Price,  in  pursuance  of 
orders  received  from  Colonel  Lefferts,  relieved  the  First 
Company  at  Monocacy  with  the  Second,  and  relieved  the 
latter  from  its  picket  duty  on  the  pike  with  the  Sixth  Com 
pany,  Captain  Young.  These  changes  were  more  accept 
able  naturally  to  the  two  latter  companies  than  to  the 
former,  which  returned  to  the  regimental  camp.  "  Packing 
22 


338  HISTORY   OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

its  household  goods  in  wagons  and  upon  its  mules  and 
horses,  the  company  marched  cheerfully  away  through 
Frederick,  and  down  the  broad  pike  to  its  destination.  The 
morning  was  charming  ;  the  march  was  enlivened  by  songs 
and  jokes,  all  of  which,  irrespective  of  merit,  were  laughed 
at  and  applauded  ;  and  at  ten  o'clock,  in  the  highest  glee 
and  good-humor,  the  company  reached  Monocacy.  The 
only  mishap  of  the  morning  was  the  running  away  of  a 
vicious  mule,  that  was  made  frantic  by  the  rattle  of  pots 
and  kettles  upon  his  back,  or  by  the  shouts  and  blows  of 
his  young  negro  rider,  and  went  dashing  down  the  road, 
scattering  his  miscellaneous  burden  in  every  direction,  and 
followed  with  rapid  strides,  amid  shouts  of  laughter,  by  his 
disconsolate  owners.  The  First  Company  having  grum- 
blingly  departed  for  Camp  Misery,  the  Second  Company  took 
possession  of  its  new  and  delightful  quarters  at  Monocacy." 
But  what  now  remains  of  the  story  of  the  Frederick 
campaign  may  be  briefly  told.  The  Army  of  the  Potomac 
was  already  far  beyond  Frederick  ;  it  and  its  rival  now 
faced  each  other  on  the  Potomac  at  Williamsport.  Fred 
erick  was  restored  to  its  normal  condition  ;  and  Major- 
General  Schriver  (Inspector-General  of  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac)  arriving  from  Washington  to  take  permanent 
command  of  the  post,  Colonel  Leiferts  was  relieved  by 
that  officer,  and  resumed  command  of  the  Seventh  Eegi- 
ment.  He  forthwith,  by  General  Schriver's  direction,  rein 
forced  the  garrison  at  Monocacy  by  another  company,  —  the 
Tenth,  Lieutenant  Ray  commanding.  "  Great  vigilance  " 
also  was,  by  order  of  General  Schriver,  to  be  "  enjoined 
on  all  the  troops  stationed  there." 

HEAD- QUARTERS,  FREDERICK  CITY,  July  13,  1863. 
COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  Colonel  Commanding  Seventh  N.  Y.  S.  M. 

SIR, —  You  will  please  order  forthwith  another  company  of  your  regi 
ment  to  Monocacy  Junction,  to  be  stationed  there  until  further  orders, 
to  serve,  with  the  company  already  at  that  place,  as  guards  to  the  bridges 
and  depot 


AT   FREDERICK.  339 

Consider  the  expediency  of  placing  them  under  the  command  of  a 
field  officer,  and  enjoin  great  vigilance  on  all  the  troops  stationed  there. 
Very  respectfully,  sir,  your  obedient  servant, 

ED.  SCHRIVER, 

Major- General  Commanding. 

The  same  day,  the  13th  of  July,  Lieutenant  Felt,  com 
manding  the  Seventh  Company,  relieved  Captain  Easton 
and  the  Ninth  Company  on  the  Hagerstown  Road. 

But  the  Frederick  campaign,  with  its  duties  and  pleas 
ures,  was  now  nearly  over.  A  new  and  for  the  Seventh 
Regiment  a  final  theatre  of  action  during  the  war  was  al 
ready  opened.  The  remarks  made  upon  the  two  previous 
rolls  apply  to  the  roll  now  appended. 

MUSTER-ROLL    FOR    1863. 

Colonel. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS. 
Lieutenant- Colonel.  Major. 

JAMES  PRICE.  . 

Staff". 

William  H.  Hume,  Adjutant  John  C.  Barren,  2d  Surgeon. 

Stephen  Rogers,  1st  Surgeon.  Gilbert  T.  Totten,  3d    " 

Charles  T.  McClenachan,  Quartermaster. 

Non-commissioned  Staff. 

Richard  F.  Ware,  Sergt.  Major.  Marshall  Lefferts,  Jr.,  R.  G.  Guide. 

L.  L.  S.  Clearman,  Quartermaster  Sergt.  John  McKesson,  L.  G.  Guide. 
Wm.  C.  Platt,  Commissary  Sergt.  Edward  Fopte-,  Sergt.  of  Guard. 

Charles  H.  Winans,  Ordnance  Sergt.      James  W.  Wilson,  Hospital  Steward. 
Wm.  H.  Gibson,  Color  Sergt.  Charles  W.  Weinig,  Bugler. 

Peter  D.  Braisted,  "        "  David  Graham,  Chief  Musician. 

Band. 

Claudio  S.  Grafulla,  Band  Master. 
Fehz,  Peter,  1st  Class.  Fielding,  John,          2d  Class. 


Diller,  Francis  K., 
Centerno,  Lucien, 
Bader,  Frederick, 
Hente,  Charles, 
Fritz,  Edward, 


Vroseck,  William, 
Giblehausen,  Henry, 
Bader,  Henry, 
Helfrich,  Charles, 
Gesner,  Joseph, 


340 


HISTOEY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 


Hoesline,  Fredolino,  3d  Class. 

Dorty,  Oliver,  "  " 

Wahie,  Frederick,      "  " 

Worn,  Louis,  "  " 

Rosenberg,  Sampson,"  " 

Salamon,  Mitchell,     "  " 

Anderson,  John,         "  " 

Centerno,  Ottavio,      "  " 


Corley,  Thomas,  3d  Class. 

Conner,  Claudio  G.,  "  " 

Linhard,  Andrew,  "  " 

Girard,  A.,  "  " 

Barry,  William,  "  " 

Denise,  J.,  "  " 

Johnson,  T.,  "  " 

Peck,  J.,  «  <« 


FIRST   COMPANY  (A). 
Captain,  WILLIAM  P.  BENSEL. 
1st  Lieutenant,  Hugh  M.  Funston. 
Sergeants.  Corporals. 

Bogert,  Peter  J'.  (Orderly).  Archer,  Anson  S. 

Murray,  James.  Bensel,  J.  Warner. 

Spelman,  Wm.  B.  Leach,  Henry  L. 

Barr,  Samuel  C. 
Pearsall,  Wm. 


Privates. 


Apellas,  Frederick  A. 
Apgar,  Louis  J. 
Aston,  Frederick  S. 
Baker,  John  T.   ' 
Barclay,  James  H. 
Belknap,  Augustus, 
Belknap,  Charles. 
Bensel,  Joseph. 
Bornhoeft,  John,  Jr. 
Boswell,  William. 
Bosworth,  C.  P.  B. 
Bull,  William. 
Byrne,  Edward  H. 
Cowan,  George  W. 
Dixon,  Frederick  B. 
D'Orville,  A. 
Eagleson,  James  H. 
Emory,  Montlin. 
Falconer,  Robert  S. 
Flagg,  James. 
Giffing,  Isaac. 
Griffith,  William. 


Hall,  Samuel  B. 
Hamilton,  Robert. 
Hewlett,  A.  C. 
Kellock,  William. 
Lyon,  Charles  H. 
Macfarlane,  John  A. 
Maginn,  John  W. 
Masterson,  Joseph  H. 
McMurtry,  Oscar 
Morgan,  Henry  A.,  Jr. 
Moulin,  H. 
Perry,  D.  A. 
Saunders,  George  H. 
Schefers,  Jacob. 
Schenck,  Wilkins. 
Sherman,  Frederick. 
Spelman,  Boswell  S. 
Thorn,  William  J. 
Van  de veer,  J.  R. 
Vermilye,  W.  R.,  Jr. 
West,  Joseph  C. 
Winser,  J.  H. 


AT   FREDERICK. 


341 


SECOND   COMPANY   (B). 
Captain,  EMMONS  CLARK. 


1st  Lieutenant,  Peter  Palmer. 

,  Sergeants. 

Gould,  Robert  S.,  Jr. 
Van  Norden,  Charles  S. 
Buchan,  Robert  C. 
Quilliard,  Gulian  V. 
Brower,  Bloomfield. 

/  Alden,  James  M. 

Amerman,  Jacob  B. 

Bacon,  Benjamin  D. 
/  Baldwin,  A.  De  Witt. 

Baptist,  Francis  A. 

Bartholomew,  James  H. 

Beekman,  Benjamin  F. 

Bernard,  Walter. 

Bird,  John  H. 

Blanck,  Thomas,  Jr. 

Blauvelt,  Robert  B. 

Brockner,  Washington,  Jr. 

Brown,  Wilbur  F. 

Chace,  Oliver  M. 

Church,  William  P. 

Clark,  George  C. 

Clark,  James  W. 

Corbiere,  George  F. 

Cornwall,  George  J. 

Curtis,  Albert  A. 

Davis,  Alexander  M. 

Dawes,  Francis  A. 

Day,  Martin  N. 

Debenham,  George. 

Decker,  Reuben. 

Dusenbery,  Edwin. 

Dusenbery,  George  E. 

Eadie,  William  R. 

Ferry,  Theodore  S. 

Find  lay,  Andrew,  Jr. 

Fletcher,  Walter. 

Foster,  Frederick. 

Gano,  Joseph  J. 


2d  Lieutenant,  George  M.  Smith. 

Corporals. 
Mix,  Eugene. 
Agens,  Frederick  G. 
Russell,  James  F. 
Steele,  Henry  S. 


Privates. 


Gould,  William  R. 
Gregory,  Frank. 
Gregory,  Henry  S. 
Hadley,  Charles  L. 
Haff,  Stephen,  Jr. 
Hall,  William  S. 
Havens,  Jonathan  N. 
Isham,  Henry  P. 
Kase,  John,  Jr. 
King,  Josiah  N. 
Kotman,  Louis  E. 
Lowere,  Charles  H. 
Lowere,  Thomas  H. 
Mahoney,  Daniel. 
Mahoney,  John  H.,  Jr. 
Mather,  Thomas  D. 
McKinley,  Robert. 
Menzies,  William,  Jr. 
Mitchell,  William  A. 
Moore,  William  F. 
Nash,  Edward  N. 
Naudine,  George. 
Nodine,  William. 
Oakey,  John. 
Pearae,  William  D. 
Pinckney,  Isaac  L. 
Prankard,  Francis  T. 
Robinson,  James  W. 
Roome,  Hugh  R. 
Roome,  James  W. 
Russell,  Lewis  H. 
Salisbury,  Richard  L. 
Savage,  John  A. 


342  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Servoss,  Elias  B.  Trimble,  Samuel. 

.    Sill,  Frederick  A.  Vanderbilt,  George. 

Steele,  Edward  J.  Van  Duzer,  William  A. 

/  Stevens,  George  D.  Ward,  Daniel  T. 

Stone,  Foster.  Ward,  Samuel  L.  H.,  Jr. 

Strang,  John  C.  Warner,  Everardus. 

,  Swift,  Charles,  Jr.  Weeks,  William  F. 

Taylor,  John  H.  Whitfield,  Edward  A. 

Taylor,  Joseph  L.  Wright,  Charles  S. 

Terrett,  Charles  W.  Wright,  George  H. 

Thompson,  Thomas.  Young,  Albert  M. 

Trimble,  James  D. 


THIRD   COMPANY  (C). 
Captain,  GEORGE  F.  HAWS. 

Sergeants.  Corporals. 

Pollard,  Don  Alonzo  (Orderly).  Allen,  William  H. 

Kennedy,  Charles  S.  Conroy,  Thomas  L. 

Bend,  William  B.  Burgoyne,  Theodore. 

Bobbins,  Charles  F.  Mattison,  Lucius  H. 

Privates. 

Abbott,  Nelson.  Haig,  James  B. 

Amory,  John  M.  Hick  cox,  Thomas  N. 

Brower,  John  L.  Hyde,  Zebulon  E. 

Cammann,  Jacob  L.  Jackson,  William  H. 

Cammann,  Oswald,  Jr.  Ketchum,  Daniel  P. 

Cheesebrough,  Maxwell  W.  Mali,  William  W. 

Conroy,  William  F.  Mangam,  Franklin. 

Cornell,  Thomas  L.  Oakley,  Alfred. 

Crary,  Charles  F.  Pearce,  Daniel  B. 

Curran,  Hugh  McC.  Robinson,  William  G. 

DeGrort,  Henry  F.  Smith,  Alexander  M.  C.,  Jr. 

Drinker,  James  S.  Steers,  James. 

Edgar,  Le  Roy.  Talbert,  Benjamin  G. 

Geary,  Horace  P.  Tomkins,  Henry. 

Gregory,  George  W.  White,  John  H. 
Gunn,  Charles  L. 


AT   FREDERICK. 


343 


FOURTH  COMPANY  (D). 


1st  Lieutenant,  Henry  Everdell. 

Sergeants. 

Dickenson,  George  A.  (Orderly). 
Taylor,  Thomas  S. 
Balen,  Peter,  Jr. 
Nugent,  Henry. 
Taylor,  Joseph  D.,  Jr. 


Baily,  Gardner. 
Beard,  Sylvester. 
Bogart,  Arthur  W. 
Bradford,  James  S. 
Britz,  Samuel. 
Bulkley,  E.  O. 
Bunting,  Howard. 
Bunting,  R.  S. 
Crandall,  Frank. 
Devoe,  Isaac  W. 
Dumont,  John  B. 
Fairchild,  Mort. 
Geery,  Samuel  W. 
Gillespie,  S.  F. 
Groot,  Willis. 
Gulager,  L.  W. 
Haas,  Leonard. 
Hays,  Benjamin  J. 
Hill,  Darwin  E. 
Holly,  H.  H. 
Honeywell,  Charles. 
Hough taling,  Frank. 
Hyatt,  S.  Burdett. 
Jackson,  Francis  W. 
Jarvis,  D.  M. 
Jarvis,  Edward  A. 
Jarvis,  Jay. 


2c?  Lieutenant,  William  H.  Kipp. 

Corporals, 
Ferry,  Edwin  W. 
Peterson,  William  T. 
Breeden,  Abner  H. 
Hal  stead,  Robert. 
Weyman,  E.  H. 
Pendleton,  Aug.  F. 
Sturtevant,  C. 
Ketcham,  John  B. 


Privates. 


Jones,  William. 
Kennedy,  John  E. 
King,  Joseph  L. 
King,  R.  J. 
Kipp,  Pearson  H. 
Kopper,  Fred. 
Lambert,  Wm. 
Mackenzie,  John. 
Miller,  Wm.  R. 
Mixsell,  Aaron. 
Montgomery,  Geo.  W. 
Nichols,  Carmon. 
Nichols,  Henry. 
Olssen,  Edward  J. 
Osborne,  Elbert  J. 
Outcalt,  Cornelius. 
Parr,  Benjamin. 
Peake,  Wm. 
Peters,  Joshua. 
Resell,  E.  O.,  Jr. 
Sanford,  George  H. 
Schenck,  D.  D. 
Schoonmaker,  Hiram. 
Smith,  E.  L. 
Smith,  Milton. 
Terhune,  Wm. 
Thompson,  J.  J. 


344 


HISTORY   OF  THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


FIFTH  COMPANY  (E). 
Captain,  VAN  BUREN  BUTTON. 

1st  Lieutenant,  "Win.  Seward,  Jr.  2d  Lieutenant,  S.  Oscar  Ryder. 

Corporals. 


Sergeants. 
Wyckoff,  Albert  T.  (Orderly). 
Post,  Geo.  W. 
Tibbals,  Lewis  P. 


Abrams,  Thomas  D. 
Baker,  George  W. 
Beers,  James  E. 
Bell,  Wm.  G. 
Braisted,  Francis  M. 
Canover,  Gustavus  W. 
Coffin,  George  W. 
Daily,  Geo.  H. 
Dod worth,  Allen  R. 
Donaldson,  Thomas. 
Edwards,  John  B. 
Elliott,  William  P. 
Goetz,  J.  William. 
Grosvenor,  Levi. 
Hawkes,  Thos.  E. 
Holbrook,  Judson  W. 
Hopping,  Augustus  R. 
Johnson,  John. 
Jones,  George  W. 
King,  Oliver. 
Lockwood,  Jesse  C. 
Losee,  Augustus. 
Losee,  Edward  M. 
Mann,  Charles  W. 
Matthews,  Charles  D. 
McKibben,  George. 


Miller,  John  P. 
Hutchings,  Edward  W.,  Jr. 
Murray,  Robert,  Jr. 
Nicoll,  Augustus  W. 
Colvin,  William  H. 


Privates. 


McLean,  Alexander  W. 
Meyers,  Charles  L. 
Mix,  Magellan  F. 
Moore,  J.  Spencer. 
Moore,  Thomas. 
Noe,  Augustus. 
Palmer,  George  M. 
Pease,  Edward  C.    •. 
Quail,  George. 
Quail,  William. 
Reid,  Robert. 
Reynolds,  James  E. 
Rust,  John  H. 
Searles,  William  B. 
Shelley,  Michael  W. 
Simpson,  Joseph  H. 
Smith,  Edward  A. 
Smith,  Francis  A. 
Smith,  Henry  A. 
Stegman,  John  H. 
Talcott,  Thomas  H. 
Thorn,  John  C. 
Tibbals,  Edward  P. 
White,  Charles  L. 
Whitney,  Joseph  S. 
Yeaton,  Samuel  C. 


AT  FREDERICK.  345 

SIXTH   COMPANY  (F). 

Captain,  JOSEPH  B.  YOUNG. 
1st  Lieutenant,  Edward  O.  Bird.  2d  Lieutenant,  Peyton  Jaudon. 

Sergeants.  Corporals. 

Brady,  Abner  S.  (Orderly).  Gardiner,  Charles  C. 

Erving,  John.  Suydam,  John  F. 

Freeman,  W.  B.  Middlebrook,  C.  T. 

Congdon,  H.  M.  Hardy,  J.  F. 

Pattison,  William. 
Nathan,  H.  H. 

Privates. 

Bull,  William  H.  Little,  W. 

Canfield,  C.  P.  Livingston,  M. 

Chambers,  S.  J.  Macbeth,  W. 

Clearman,  F.  G.  Miller,  John. 

Crocker,  J.  N.  Mullaby,  T. 

Crow,  A.  T.  Murray,  W. 

Daniel,  William.  Musgrave,  J.  J. 

Forgerson,  J.  A.  Nathan,  F. 

Gaus,  A.  Plestin,  Charles  F. 

Goodrich,  W.  R.  Powers,  E.  A. 

Harner,  J.  H.  Raynor,  J.  W. 

Harrall,  H.  H.  Sibley,  William  H. 

Hendricks,  E.  Simons,  J.  F. 

Hendricks,  W.  J.  Stillwell,  R.  H. 

Hone,  John.  Storer,  D.  A. 

Hoy,  Robert  S.  Tallman,  C.  L. 

Irwin,  F.  T.  Turner,  H.  B. 

Jennings,  W.  T.  Vernam,  A.  H. 

Jones,  W.  P.  Wood,  W.  S. 
Kent,  George  A. 

SEVENTH  COMPANY  (G). 
2d  Lieutenant  (commanding),  Edwin  M.  Felt. 

Sergeants.  Corporals. 

Delano,  Thomas  E.  (Orderly).  Avery,  John,  Jr. 

Holdredge,  David  M.  Dunscomb,  John  H.  A. 

Pomeroy,  Eugene  H.  Sherman,  Samuel  J. 

Wheelwright,  Wm.  G. 

De  Lamater,  Charles  H. 


346 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


Privates. 


Anderson,  Smith  W. 
Bacon,  Richard  L. 
Banks,  Joseph  E. 
Barretto,  William  H. 
Beebe,  Charles  W. 
Bennett,  Charles  F. 
Bowne,  Robert  S. 
Briggs,  Benjamin  C. 
Burroughs,  James  8. 
Callender,  William  E. 
Clark,  John  G. 
Cooper,  George  C. 
Cortelyou,  James  H. 
Crane,  Edward  I. 
Crane,  Frank  G. 
Drew,  Thomas  W. 
Durant,  George  F. 
Ely,  Frederick  W. 
Freeborn,  James  F.,  Jr. 
Gardner,  John  G. 
Hale,  Edward  D. 
Holdredge,  Sterling  M. 


Ingersoll,  James  H. 
Kingsland,  Joseph  T. 
Louderbach,  David,  Jr. 
Mackenzie,  Mortimer  L. 
McJimsey,  Eugene. 
Millen,  William. 
Moore,  George  G. 
Pomeroy,  Edward  G. 
Putnam,  Albert  E. 
Schermerhorn,  Charles  A. 
Schermerhorn,  Eugene  E. 
Schenck,  William  E. 
Sherman,  Albert  G. 
Sherman,  Arthur  W. 
Simons,  Henry  C. 
Simpson,  William. 
Steers,  Abraham. 
Trotter,  Edgar  A. 
Turnbull,  George  R. 
Van  Loan,  Benjamin  A. 
Van  Sicklen,  Henry  K. 
Voorhees,  Frederick  P. 


EIGHTH   COMPANY  (H). 


1st  Lieutenant,  Howard  Waldo. 

Sergeants. 

Casey,  Wm.  C.  (Orderly). 
Howell,  Wm.  P. 
Morrison,  James,  Jr. 


Abrams,  James  C. 
Adams,  William,  Jr. 
Allen,  Charles  D. 
Bartlett,  William  E. 
Benedict,  James. 
Berry,  Samuel  J.,  Jr. 
Boyce,  George  A. 
Burkhalter,  John  H. 
Coles,  Edward  0. 


2d  Lieutenant,  Gilbert  L.  Arrowsmith. 

Corporals. 
Ryder,  Alfred  V. 
Loder,  Benjamin. 
Mather,  De  Witt  C. 
Gifford,  Sanford  R. 


Privates. 


Delano,  Victor  M. 
Easton,  Frederick  J. 
Forshay,  George  H. 
Franklin,  Peter  B. 
Garson,  Thomas  E.,  Jr. 
Gillilan,  John,  Jr. 
Gross,  Frank,  Jr. 
Halsted,  William  H. 
Hanford,  William  H. 


AT   FREDERICK.  347 

Heiser,  Frederick  S.  Oddie,  John  V.  S. 

Hoe,  William  A.  Pease,  Walter  A. 

Hull,  William  R.  Potter,  Allen  B, 

Jackson,  F.  D.  Price,  Charles  A. 

Knight,  A.  L.  Richards,  John  S. 

McKune,  James.  Sloane,  William  D. 

Mercein,  James  R.  Van  Woert,  J.  V.,  Jr. 

Morrison,  William  A.  Williams,  George  P. 
Murray,  George  W. 


NINTH  COMPANY  (I). 

Captain,  CHARLES  A.  EASTON. 
1st  Lieutenant,  Henry  A.  Cragin.  2d  Lieutenant,  Irvin  H.  MacBride. 

Sergeants.  Corporals. 

Keeler,  Edwin,  Jr.  (Orderly).  Ketchum,  Edmund. 

Moore,  Lawrence,  Jr.  Dummell,  G.  H. 

Burdick,  J.  C.  .  Arthur,  E.  G. 

O'Brien,  Oswin.  Ryan,  W.  H. 

Corey,  R.  P.  Lounsberry,  J.  H. 

Kingsland,  D.  C. 

Sweet,  M.  B. 

Edgar,  S.  P. 

Privates. 

Aclasson,  De  Lamater  W.  Eames,  G.  H. 

Adams,  Austin.  Fisher,  H.  C. 

Albertson,  Edwin.  Franklin,  Wm. 

Arthur,  W.  H.  Germond,  G.  B. 

Bill,  Avery,  Jr.  (July  7).                         Gilmour,  M.  J. 

Black,  F.  A.  Glazo,  G.  J. 

Black,  James.  Hannah,  George. 

Bogert,  Jacob  J.  Haushe,  J.  B. 

Brink,  H.  P.  Hazeltine,  J.  M. 

Burt,  John  (July  5).  Howe,  L.  P 

Bush,  Theo.  H.  Imlay,  M. 

Church,  J.  A.  King,  C.  E. 

Church,  E.  D.  Knapp,  E.  S. 

Churchill,  F.  A.  Lane,  N.  P. 

Coburn,  J.  W.  Lent,  D.  W.  C. 

Crosby,  H.  L.  Lewis,  George. 

Cutter,  H.  M.  McCrea,  J.  E. 

Dewitt,  Peter.  McDonald,  Alex.  (July  2). 


348 


HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


Meeks, . 

Merchant,  A.  T. 
Merritt,  A.  B. 
Miller,  Anthony. 
Mingay,  E.  B. 
Mitchell,  John. 
Neilson,  C.  F. 

Randall, . 

Roberts,  M.  H. 
Roberts,  R.  L. 
Rutherford,  J. 

Salisbury, . 

Schermerhorn,  A. 
Schermerhorn,  W.  B. 
Schultry,  Theodore. 


Searle,  H.  A. 

Smith,  John  W.  (July  7). 

Sprague,  C.  G. 

Stine,  George  H.  (July  7). 

Sutherland,  L.  V. 

Swan,  H.  C. 

Taylor,  James  P. 

Thistle,  Boyd  (July  7). 

Van  Iderstine,  Peter. 

Van  Nest,  G.  G. 

White,  G.  W. 

Wilson,  George. 

Young,  D.  A. 

Youle,  George. 


TENTH   COMPANY  (K). 
Captain,  E.  P.  ROGERS. 


1st  Lieutenant,  James  Ray. 

Sergeants. 

Clinton,  C.  W.  (Orderly). 
Bleecker,  James. 
Gawtry,  H.  E. 

Bleecker,  T.  B. 

Drummer,  Osborne,  William. 


2d  Lieutenant,  Jos.  Lentilhon. 

Corporals. 
Drake,  L. 
Bogert,  C.  L. 
Macy,  Chas.  A.,  Jr. 


Privates. 


Bronson,  O. 

Bronson,  W. 

Burckle,  I.  J. 

Churchill,  J.  L. 

D'Hervilly,  Ed. 

Greene,  R.  H. 

Hart,  L.,  Jr. 

Houghton,  F.  W. 

Jones,  E.  R. 

Kobbe,  P.  F.. 

Kobte,  W.  A. 

Lacombe,  E.  H. 

Luqueer,  F.  S.,  Jr.  (Commissary). 

Macdonald,  J.  A. 

Mann,  S.  V. 

Milhan,  R.  P. 

Mitchell,  H.  P. 

Mitchell,  R.  G.,  Jr. 


Moran,  D.  C. 
Morris,  Stuy't. 
Mortimer,  C.  A. 
Ostrander,  R.  W. 
Paton,  Jas.,  Jr. 
Pell,  A.,  Jr. 
Pierson,  E.  F. 
Reid,  H.  H. 
Rogers,  Phil. 
Scott,  D.  J. 
Taylor,  J.  B. 
Thorne,  J.,  Jr. 
Van  Ranst,  S.  T. 
Warner,  J.  H. 
Wetherspoon,  H.  H. 

Wetmore, (Engineer). 

White,  J.  C. 


THE   DRAFT    RIOTS. 


349 


CHAPTER    XYIII. 

THE   DRAFT  RIOTS. 

0  page  of  Ajnerican  civic  his 
tory  is  blacker  than  that 
which  records  the  "  Draft 
Riots"  of  the  midsummer  of 
1863,  —  an  epoch  alike  terri 
ble  and  disgraceful  in  the 
annals  of  the  Republic.  Of 
these  riots  the  city  of  New 
York  was  the  centre  and 
source ;  and,  though  they 
forthwith  spread  to  other 
large  cities,  in  New  York  oc 
curred  their  most  terrible  vio 
lence. 

Saturday,  the  llth  of  July, 
was  the  day  appointed  for  the 
conscription  under  the  Enrol 
ment  Act,  in  the  city  of  New 
York.  That  a  riot  would  come  of  it  was  expected,  in 
deed,  an  incendiary  hand-bill  circulated  on  the  eve  of  the 
4th  of  July,  had  indicated  an  earlier  outbreak  ;  but  the  vic 
tory  at  Gettysburg  seemed  to  have  checked  it.  On  the 
morning  of  Monday,  the  13th,  a  mob  collected  around  the 
enrolment  office  at  the  corner  of  Third  Avenue  and  Forty- 
Sixth  Sjtreet,  drove  out  the  enrolling  officers,  and  set  the 
building  in  flames.  The  police  and  a  detachment  of  the 
Invalid  Corps,  who  rallied  to  quell  the  £meute,  were  quickly 
repulsed. 


350  HISTORY   OF  THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Already  a  hydra-headed  mob  governed  New  York  !  The 
spark  in  an  instant  had  burst  into  flame.  Joined  by  thou 
sands  of  frenzied  workmen  and  idlers,  the  rioters  soon 
found  the  city  in  their  power.  For  three  days  they  main 
tained  a  reign  of  terror.  Enrolling-offices  were  burned ; 
the  Colored  Orphan  Asylum,  a  fine  building  devoted  to  a 
noble  charity,  was  sacked  and  destroyed ;  the  dwellings  of 
citizens  obnoxious  to  the  mob  were  pillaged ;  black  people 
of  both  sexes  and  all  ages  were  shot  at,  chased  through  the 
streets,  —  each  panting  fugitive  with  a  hundred  miscreants 
at  his  heels.  Here  you  might  see  a  black  man's  little 
house  in  flames ;  there,  the  mangled  body  of  its  owner, 
clubbed  or  stoned  to  shapelessness  ;  yonder,  a  negro  hang 
ing  lifeless  to  a  lamp-post.  Mobs  besieged  alike  obnoxious 
newspaper  offices,  great  factories,  —  whose  workmen  they 
took  by  force  to  join  them,  —  and  the  homes  of  eminent 
citizens.  They  tore  down  and  trampled  under  foot  the  na 
tional  flags,  robbed  stores  in  open  day,  and  plundered  and 
beat  citizens  in  the  street.  Business  was  suspended,  the 
street  cars  and  stages  did  not  dare  to  run,  plate  and  prop 
erty  were  concealed,  houses  were  locked  and  fortified. 

On  Tuesday,  the  14th  of  July,  the  news  of  the  riot  in 
New  York  reached  the  camp  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  at 
Frederick  and  Monocacy,  followed  by  instructions  from 
General  Halleck,  at  Washington,  to  proceed  homeward 
forthwith  and  report  to  General  Wool,  then  in  command  of 
the  insurrectionary  city.  The  order  was  transmitted  to 
Colonel  Lefferts  through  General  Schriver,  as  follows  :  — 

"  SIR,  —  Major-General  Halleck  directs  that  the  Seventh  New  York 
State  Militia  be  sent  to  New  York  by  railroad,  to  report  to  Major- 
General  Wool.  You  will  please  to  take  immediate  measures  to  carry 
out  the  order." 

It  was  a  welcome  command.  The  work  of  the  Seventh 
Regiment  at  the  front  was  done.  The  exigency  for  which 
it  had  marched  was  happily  ended.  The  victory  at  Gettys- 


THE   DRAFT   RIOTS.  351 

\ 

burg  had  settled  the  question  of  invasion,  and  both  of  the 
great  armies,  having  crossed  the  Potomac,  were  now  mak 
ing  their  way  into  Virginia.  The  post  of  duty  for  the 
Seventh  was  no  longer  Maryland,  but  New  York,  —  the 
protection  of  hearths  and  homes. 

Colonel  Lefferts,  who  had  already  received  tidings 
of  the  riot,  was  prepared  to  act  forthwith  upon  Hal- 
leek's  instructions.  He  received  the  foregoing  order 
in  person  at  head-quarters  in  Frederick  at  four  o'clock, 
p.  M.,  of  the  14th,  and  made  all  haste  in  its  execution. 
With  such  celerity  were  his  outposts  and  detachments 
called  in  and  his  camp  broken,  that,  notwithstanding 
the  roads  were  very  heavy  after  a  long  storm,  the  whole 
regiment  was  gathered  at  Monocacy  Junction  in  four  and 
a  half  hours  from  the  time  the  Colonel  received  marching 
orders  at  Frederick  City.  He  had  also  sent  one  of  his 
staff  ahead  to  Monocacy  to  expedite  the  providing  of  trans 
portation  to  Baltimore;  but  on  arriving,  at  8.30  o'clock, 
p.  M.,  at  the  Junction,  he  found  that  the  cars  could  not 
leave  until  11.45,  P.M.  At  that  hour,  the  close,  dirty, 
and  comfortless  trains  started,  and  arrived  in  Baltimore  at 
5,  A.  M,,  of  the  15th.  At  8.30,  A.  M.,  the  regiment  left 
Baltimore  by  rail  for  Philadelphia,  which  it  reached  towards 
evening. 

Meanwhile,  Governor  Seymour  had  sent  to  Colonel  Lef 
ferts  an  intimation  that  possibly  the  rails  might  be  taken 
up  at  or  near  Newark,  and  the  regiment  there  attacked, 
with  a  view  to  prevent  or  delay  its  arrival  in  New  York. 
To  foil  this  movement  and  to  reach  New  York,  where  there 
was  pressing  necessity  for  the  regiment's  presence  at  the 
earliest  hour,  Colonel  Lefferts  arranged,  with  the  assistance 
of  Colonel  E.  S.  Sanford,  to  transport  the  regiment  from 
Philadelphia  via  Amboy,  landing  at  Canal  Street,  —  the 
latter  point  being  suggested  by  Governor  Seymour,  who 
had  so  telegraphed  :  — 


352  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

NEW  YORK,  July  15, 1863,  8.20  p.  M. 
COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  Seventh  Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  M. 

It  will  be  best  to  land  at  Canal  Street,  unless  you  prefer  a  point  lower 
down.  Report  to  me  at  police  head-quarters. 

HORATIO  SEYMOUR. 

Accordingly,  after  supper  at  the  Soldiers'  Refreshment 
Saloon,  Philadelphia,  the  regiment  proceeded  by  rail  to 
Amboy,  which  it  reached  at  one  o'clock  in  the  morning,  and 
there  took  steamer  for  New  York.  On  the  way,  Private 
Schenck,  of  the  Seventh  Company,  fell  overboard  and  was 
drowned. 

At  dawn  of  Thursday,  the  16th  of  July,  the  steamer 
touched  the  Canal  Street  pier,  and  the  regiment  promptly 
disembarked.  Exaggerated  accounts  of  atrocities  which 
required  no  exaggeration,  meeting  the  men  on  their  jour 
ney,  had  prepared  them  to  expect  street-fighting,  and  it 
was  supposed  that  every  inch  of  their  way  would  be  con 
tested.  The  silence  and  vacancy  of  the  streets,  usually  so 
busy  and  noisy  in  the  neighborhood,  told  at  once  the  change 
that  had  come  over  the  city.  But  through  Canal  Street 
and  Broadway,  without  the  slightest  show  of  opposition,  the 
regiment  marched  to  the  St.  Nicholas  Hotel,  the  head-quar 
ters  of  General  Wool,  commanding  the  department.  Re 
porting  to  that  officer,  Colonel  Lefferts  was  by  him  directed 
to  conduct  the  regiment  to  the  armory,  and  there  remain, 
ready  for  immediate  service.  The  Veterans  of  the  National 
Guard,  "  faithful  guardians  of  the  portal  stood,"  having 
through  the  three  days'  menace  of  the  mob  there  kept 
watch  and  ward. 

The  arrival  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  in  New  York  was 
hailed  with  satisfaction  and  delight  by  all  peaceful  and 
law-abiding  citizens,  and  with  execrations  by  the  mob.  We 
have  described  its  welcome  home  after  its  earlier  cam 
paigns  ;  a  greeting  far  different  was  accorded  now.  No 
throngs  so  vast  were  assembled  to  greet  its  early  coming  ; 


THE   DRAFT   RIOTS.  353 

but  the  welcome  in  the  hearts  of  the  citizens  was  more 
fervent  than  ever  before.  As  the  approach  of  the  Seventh 
had  been  anxiously  awaited,  so  its  arrival  gave  general  con 
fidence  to  the  distressed  citizens,  and  diffused  a  grateful 
sense  of  tranquillity.  The  news  was  quickly  telegraphed 
through  the  country,  and  was  accepted  everywhere  as  a 
pledge  of  the  security  of  New  York.* 

Three  days  and  nights  the  riot  had  raged  ;  but  it  had 
reached  its  climax  and  was  already  subsiding.  The  police, 
who  displayed  admirable  address  and  undaunted  bravery 
against  overwhelming  numbers,  a  few  detachments  of  Regu 
lars  from  neighboring  posts  and  of  marines  from  the  Navy- 
yard,  and,  at  last,  some  volunteer  and  militia  regiments 
returning  home  or  going  through  the  city  to  the  front,  made 
head  against  the  mob.  And  many  noble-hearted  citizens, 
with  a  courage  greater  than  that  which  a  pitched  battle 
usually  requires,  fought  the  savage  mob  in  the  streets.  Nor 
was  it  a  service  without  peril.  Colonel  O'Brien  was  brutally 
beaten  to  death  by  a  legion  of  cruel  assailants  ;  and  the 
gallant  Jardine  —  a  member  of  the  Seventh,  but  then 
Colonel  of  the  Eighty-Ninth  New  York  Volunteers  —  was 
cruelly  maimed  by  the  rioters,  suffering  a  compound  frac 
ture  of  the  thigh,  which  disables  him  to  this  day.  How 
ever,  the  police,  the  citizens,  and  the  Regulars  gave  more 
wounds  than  they  took,  and  killed  and  wounded  some 
hundreds  of  the  rioters  in  the  various  skirmishes.  This 
slaughter  had  a  good  effect,  insomuch  that,  after  its  first 

*  The  Baltimore  Daily  Clipper  of  July  17  said  :  "  The  gallant  New  York 
Seventh,  to  whom  our  city  and  State  is  so  much  indebted,  for  its  promptness  on 
three  several  occasions  flying  to  our  aid,  when  we  were  endangered  by  Rebel  forces 
coming  over  the  Potomac,  or  by  a  worse  foe  in  our  midst,  in  the  sympathizers  with 
Rebellion  on  the  19th  of  April,  1861,  were  promptly  recalled  home  to  attend  to  the 
Copperheads  of  New  York,  and  their  agents,  the  mob  of  the  Five  Points ;  and  as 
they  are  announced  to  have  arrived  there  on  the  evening  of  Wednesday,  we  have 
strong  reasons  for  believing  that  ere  this  the  pestilent  mob  has  been  suppressed. 
With  that  regiment  at  home,  and  a  man  in  command  of  the  military  district  who 
understood  his  duty,  this  disgraceful  riot  would  have  been  nipped  in  the  bud." 
23 


354  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

fury  was  spent,  and  two  millions'  worth  of  property  de 
stroyed,  the  mob  began  to  shrink  from  further  responsi 
bility. 

The  following  order  was  issued  by  Colonel  Lefferts  on 
arriving  in  New  York :  — 

"  All  members  of  this  regiment  are  ordered  to  report  at  the  armory, 
to  their  respective  commandants,  this  afternoon  at  six  o'clock,  armed 
and  equipped. 

"  No  excuse,  except  that  of  sickness  or  other  disability,  will  be  re 
ceived." 

Those  members  who  had  remained  in  New  York  during 
the  campaign  had  already  performed  efficient  service  during 
the  riots.  On  the  first  day,  Monday,  all  members  of  the 
regiment  then  at  home  were  ordered  to  report  at  the 
armory,  and  were  there  on  guard  all  night,  ready  to  be 
called  on.  On  Tuesday  morning  they  were  temporarily 
dismissed,  under  orders  to  report  again  for  duty  at  half- 
past  seven  on  Tuesday  evening.  At  nine  o'clock  that  night, 
a  body  of  about  seventy  officers  and  men  of  the  Seventh, 
and  an  equal  force  of  the  Twenty-Second  Regiment,  marched 
to  Webb's  ship-yard,  to  protect  the  iron-clad  vessel  there 
building.  They  were  under  arms  all  night,  in  a  duty  at 
once  comfortless  and  perilous,  as  the  mob  often  approached, 
yelling  and  threatening  ;  it  had  forced  the  suspension  of 
work  on  the  vessel,  that  the  Avorkmen  might  join  them,  and 
menaced  to  destroy  all  the  government  property,  valued  at 
two  million  dollars.  But  their  malignity  vented  itself  only 
in  threats.  This  detachment  from  the  Seventh  was  re-en 
forced  by  a  howitzer  sent  from  the  Navy-yard,  whose  pres 
ence  had  a  good  effect  on  the  mob. 

During  Thursday  morning  the  whole  regiment  remained 
in  the  armory.  At  10,  A.  M.,  Colonel  Lefferts  reported  to 
Governor  Seymour.  In  consequence  of  the  order  (already 
recorded)  directing  him  to  leave  all  baggage  at  Fort  Fed 
eral  Hill,  his  men  were  entirely  destitute  of  extra  clothing, 


THE   DRAFT   RIOTS.  355 

and  they  had  not  changed  their  underclothing  for  eleven 
days,  during  which  time  also  they  had  not  even  had 
shelter-tents.  Nevertheless,  they  were  ready  for  instant 
duty.  / 

However,  there  were  signs  of  the  waning  of  the  riot. 
The  street  railroads  had  all  recommenced  running,  and  the 
workmen  had  mostly  returned  to  the  large  factories  and 
shops.  The  draft  had  been  suspended,  and  thus  the  imme 
diate  cause  for  insurrection  was  taken  away  from  the  rioters. 
However,  a  residuum  of  rogues,  thieves,  drunken  laborers, 
and  others,  still  prolonged  the  carnival  of  crime  from  sheer 
love  of  it.  The  stronghold  of  this  force  was  now  on  the 
east  side  of  the  city,  in  the  upper  wards,  —  in  that  neighbor 
hood  where  Colonel  O'Brien  had  been  murdered.  That 
part  of  the  city,  General  Harvey  Brown,  United  States 
Artillery,  commanding  in  the  city  under  General  Wool, 
Department  Commander,  at  once  put  under  the  charge  of 
Colonel  Lefferts. 

During  Thursday  afternoon  Colonel  Lefferts  received  the 
following  order :  — 

Colonel  Lefferts  of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  Xew  York  Militia,  will 
proceed  and  take  station  with  his  regiment  as  follows.  His  head-quar 
ters  with  one  battalion  at  the  Eighteenth  Precinct,  and  one  battalion 
under  command  of  the  senior  field  officer  at  the  Twenty-First  Precinct, 
the  Colonel  commanding  both.  He  is  charged  with  suppressing  all  mobs 
and  riots,  and  will  sternly  use  all  means  he  has  in  doing  so 

His  district  extends  from  Seventh  Street  to  Sixty-Fifth  Street,  and  he 
will  make  such  further  distribution  of  his  regiment  as  he  may  think 
proper.  He  will  continue  in  that  district  until  he  receives  further 
orders,  and  will  make  frequent  reports  to  these  head-quarters. 

By  command  of  Brevet  Brigadier-General  Harvey  Brown, 

JOHN  B.  FROTHINGHAM.  Lieut.-CoL,  A.  D.  C.,  U.  S.  A. 

During  the  day,  Colonel  Lefferts  also  received  an  appeal 
for  succor  from  General  Sandford,  who  had  been  on  duty 
at  the  Seventh  Avenue  Arsenal  for  several  days,  and  from 
which  point  he  now  wrote  as  follows  :  — 


356  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

COLONEL,  —  If  not  under  orders  from  Major-General  Wool,  I  wish  you 
to  report  the  number  and  disposition  of  your  regiment.  I  am  here  with 
a  very  small  force,  entirely  worn  out  with  constant  duty  for  three  days, 
which  I  am  anxious  to  relieve  as  soon  as  possible.  Please  to  send  a  re 
turn  as  soon  as  possible  of  your  present  force,  and  upon  what  duty  you 
are  employed. 

Yours,  respectfully, 

CHAS.  W.  SANDFORD,  Major-General. 

Upon  the  receipt  of  General  Brown's  order,  Colonel  Lef- 
ferts  marched  his  command  into  the  district  there  indicated. 
It  comprised  the  part  of  the  city  lying  between  Seventh  and 
Sixty-Fifth  Streets,  and  between  Third  Avenue  and  East 
River.  It  included  the  hoi>-bed  of  the  riot.  Within  this 
district  occurred  the  sharp  fight  between  the  mob  and  the 
small  body  of  Regulars,  under  Captain  Putnam  of  the 
Twelfth  Infantry  (U.  S.  A.),  with  an  insurgent  loss,  ac 
cording  to  that  officer,  of  thirty-three  killed  and  wounded 
and  twenty-four  prisoners,  while  but  a  few  of  his  men  were 
wounded.  Into  this  district  Colonel  Lefferts,  towards  even 
ing,  marched  his  regiment.  An  appeal  being  made  to  him 
for  haste,  on  the  ground  that  a  street>fight  was  in  progress 
in  Twenty-Second  Street,  near  Third  Avenue,  he  hurried 
off  two  companies,  —  the  Second,  Captain  Clark,  and  the 
Third,  Lieutenant  Murray,  both  under  command  of  the 
former  officer,  —  directing  them  to  proceed  through  Second 
Avenue,  to  stop  the  fight  if  still  going  on,  and  thence  pro 
ceed  to  the  regimental  station  in  Thirty-Fifth  Street.  With 
the  main  body  of  the  regiment  he  proceeded  soon  after 
through  Third  Avenue  to  the  same  point. 

In  the  neighborhood  of  Twenty-Second  Street,  the  Second 
and  Third  Companies  were  assailed  with  missiles  and  with 
scattering  shots  from  windows,  doors,  and  house-tops.  The 
fire  was  returned  whenever  practicable.  Through  this  try 
ing  ordeal  of  the  attack  of  a  concealed  foe,  the  men  marched 
steadily  and  coolly  to  Thirty-Fifth  Street,  the  rioters  every 
where  flying  from  the  street  to  their  houses  and  fences. 


THE   DRAFT   RIOTS.  357 

Fortunately,  the  only  wound  was  that  of  Private  Davis,  who 
received  a  buckshot  in  the  hand ;  the-  coats  of  Privates 
Curtis  and  King  were  torn  by  bullets.  After  dark,  also, 
as  Colonel  Lefferts  reports,  his  reconnoitring  parties  were 
"  continually  annoy e^  by  shots  from  the  houses  and  other 
places  of  concealment."  One  of  the  city  papers  next  day 
said  of  this  skirmish :  — 

'•  On  the  way,  the  mob  fired  on  the  soldiers  from  windows,  house-tops, 
doors,  and  alley-ways.  The  soldiers  returned  the  fire.  None  of  the 
Seventh  were  injured.  One  of  its  members  had  a  ball  cut  the  back  part 
of  his  uniform.  The  firing  was  of  a  straggling  character.  In  the  course 
of  the  march,  taking  both  sides,  perhaps  some  three  hundred  shots 
were  fired.  It  is  thought  that  many  of  the  mob  were  wounded.  Two 
are  known  to  be  killed  and  three  to  be  injured." 

The  Second  and  Third  Companies  joined  the  rest  of  the 
regiment  at  Thirty-Fifth  Street,  where  it  was  quartered  for 
the  night  in  a  large  rubber-factory.  Colonel  Lefferts's  head 
quarters  were  at  the  police  station  of  the  Twenty-First  Pre 
cinct,  two  doors  from  Third  Avenue,  where  also  was 
posted  the  Eighth  Company.  While  engaged  in  removing 
a  wounded  policeman  to  the  Bellevue  Hospital,  the  Eighth 
Company  had  an  encounter  with  the  mob.  Other  com 
panies  were  properly  disposed  for  guard  duty.  At  10, 
p.  M.,  in  obedience  to  instructions,  Colonel  Lefferts  sent 
down  to  Fourteenth  Street  a  battalion  of  four  companies, 
together  with  howitzers  (the  latter  under  command  of 
Captain  Rogers,  Company  K),  the  whole  under  command 
of  Lieutenant-Colonel  Price  ;  and  this  force  thoroughly  pa 
trolled  the  district  between  Thirty-Fifth  and  Thirteenth 
Streets,  and  between  Third  Avenue  and  the  river. 

The  night  passed  without  further  events  of  importance. 
Next  morning,  Colonel  Lefferts  made  the  following  re 
port  :  — 

HEAD-QUARTE-HS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT,  TWENTY-FIRST  PRECINCT, 

July  17,  1864. 

GENERAL  HARVEY  BROWN. 

SIR,  —  I  have  the  honor  to  report  the  district  under  my  charge  as 


358  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

quiet  after  twelve  o'clock,  p.  M.     I  was  obliged  to  use  harsh  measures 
during  the  evening,  but  hope  we  shall  have  no  further  trouble. 

In  obedience  to  orders,  a  thorough  patrol  of  the  district  between 
Thirty-Fifth  Street  and  Fourteenth  Street,  Third  .Avenue  and  East 
River,  was  made  last  evening  after  ten  o'clock,  p.  M.  None  of  my  men 
were  injured. 

MA'RSHALL  LEFFERTS, 
Colonel  Commanding  Seventh  Regiment. 

The  morning  papers  contained  stories  of  "  severe  en 
gagements,"  with  "  losses  in  killed  and  wounded,"  on  the 
part  of  the  Seventh.  But  these  were  promptly  contra 
dicted. 

While  in  command  of  his  district,  on  the  night  of  the 
16th,  Colonel  Lefferts  had  been  informed  of  several  depots 
of  arms  in  possession  of  the  mob.  One  of  the  memoranda 
so  received  was  accompanied  by  a  rough  plan  of  the  prem 
ises  to  be  seized,  and  the  streets  adjacent.  It  read  as  fol 
lows  :  — 

"  Opposite  145  East  Twenty-First  Street,  four  or  five  story  house 
contains  both  a  large  number  of  men  and  a  large  quantity  of  carbines, 
ready  to  use.  Their  retreat  can  be  headed  off  by  a  strong  force  placed 
in  Twenty-Second  Street,  in  the  rear  of  opposite  145  East  Twenty-First 
Street,  and  at  the  head  of  Twenty-First  Street  and  Second  Avenue." 

Accordingly,  on  the  morning  of  the  17th,  he  proceeded 
with  his  whole  force  to  Thirty-Eighth  Street,  and  there 
stretched  a  cordon  of  men  around  the  block  enclosed  be 
tween  Thirty-Eighth  and  Thirty-Seventh  Streets,  and  Second 
and  Third  Avenues.  This  done,  the  houses  in  the  block 
were  entered  and  searched.  He  proceeded  in  like  manner 
southerly,  from  block  to  block,  toward  Fourteenth  Street, 
until  about  two  hundred  and  fifty  guns  (many  of  them 
loaded  and  capped)  had  been  collected  and  secured,  beside 
a  considerable  quantity  of  clothing,  which  had  been  stolen 
from  the  store  of  Messrs.  Brooks.  In  this  work,  Colonel 
Lefferts  was  aided  by  Acting  Captain  Brackett  of  the  police, 
with  a  platoon  of  policemen.  At  two  o'clock,  p.  M.,  he  re- 


THE   DRAFT   RIOTS.  359 

ceived  orders  from  head-quarters  to  return  to  the  regimental 
armory. 

The  riot,  which  began  with  the  week,  almost  wholly  died 
out  with  its  close.  Saturday,  the  sixth  day,  found  the  city 
nearly  as  tranquil  as  usual,  save  for  the  military  forces 
moving  hither  and  thither,  and  the  remnants  of  the  riotous 
population  gathering  in  knots,  and  muttering  the  threats 
they  had  lately  yelled  in  triumph.  In  the  wake  of  the 
Seventh  other  militia  regiments  had  hurried  home  from 
Maryland,  and  returning  volunteer  troops  had  been  stopped 
and  put  on  duty  in  the  city.  General  Dix  was  put  in  com 
mand  of  the  department,  with  General  Canby  in  charge  of 
the  city.  Cavalry,  infantry,  and  artillery  in  abundance 
overawed  the  mob. 

Colonel  Lefferts,  on  the  evening  of  the  18th,  completely 
worn  out  and  ill,  left  Lieutenant-Colonel  Price  in  command. 
On  the  night  of  the  19th  a  part  of  the  regiment  was  dis 
missed  ;  but  for  two  weeks  thereafter  the  companies  re 
mained  on  duty  by  turns,  one  night  each.  August  had 
well  advanced  before  the  elaborate  precautions  against  riots 
were  relaxed,  and  mob  law  had  become  a  story  of  the  past. 
The  following  was  Colonel  Price's  order  on  this  subject :  — 

GENERAL  ORDER  No.  2. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT,  N.  Y.  S.  N.  G.. 
NEW  YORK,  August  1,  1863. 

In  compliance  with  division  order  of  this  P.  M.,  one  full  company  con 
sisting  of  one  hundred  men  is  hereby  detailed  for  duty  at  the  armory 
from  day  to  day,  together  with  two  non-commissioned  officers  from  each 
company  not  on  duty,  and  -two  non-commissioned  staff  officers,  until 
further  orders.  Captain  Clark,  with  his  command,  will  relieve  the  detach 
ment  of  Company  A  at  eight  o'clock  to-morrow  morning.  Captain  Clark 
will  be  relieved  in  turn  by  the  officer  commanding  company  next  in 
rank  on  Monday  morning  at  the  same  hour,  and  the  remaining  compa 
nies  will  relieve  in  turn  according  to  rank  each  twenty- four  hpurs  there 
after. 

Morning  reports  will  be  made  to  the  Adjutant  in  person  before  nine 


360  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

o'clock,  A.  M.,  together  with  a  list  of  delinquents ;  absence  from  the  city 
will  not  be  considered  an  excuse  for  neglect  of  duty. 

Officers  will  report  in  person  to  the  commanding  officer  in  case  they 
desire  to  leave  town. 

By  order  of 

JAMES  PRICE, 
WM.  H.  HUME,  Adjutant.  ZAeutenant- Colonel  Commanding. 

On  the  17th  of  August,  Colonel  Lefferts  received  leave  of 
absence,  and  Lieutenant-Colonel  Price  was  directed  by 
General  Hall  to  assume  command.  This  he  did,  and,  in 
compliance  with  division  and  brigade  orders  of  the  same 
date,  assembled  the  regiment  on  the  following  evening,  in 
full  fatigue  dress,  light  marching  order.  The  fact  was 
that,  on  the  20th,  the  draft  was  to  be  resumed ;  and  the  en 
tire  regiment  was  thus  again  on  duty  for  several  days.  At 
length,  however,  some  respite  came  in  the  following  or 
der :  — 

GENERAL  ORDER  No.  5. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT,  N.  Y.  S.  N.  G., 
NEW  YORK,  August  22,  1863. 

Companies  II,  B,  C,  E,  and  A,  composing  the  right  wing,  will  remain 
on  duty  at  the  armory  until  Sunday,  August  23,  at  eight  o'clock,  p.  M., 
and  then  will  be  relieved  by  Companies  G,  I,  K,  F,  and  D,  composing 
the  left  wing  of  the  regiment,  until  August  24,  at  eight  o'clock,  p.  M., 
and  so  alternate  until  further  orders. 

This  arrangement  will  not  change  the  tour  of  guard  duty  now  in  force, 
but  the  order  is  so  far  modified  as  to  require  but  one  energetic  non-com 
missioned  officer  from  each  company  to  remain  at  the  armory  constantly. 

Passes,  not  to  exceed  one  sixth  of  the  force  on  duty,  may  be  given  by 
the  commissioned  officers,  in  special  cases,  for  short  periods  only,  but 
every  pass  must  be  countersigned  by  the  officer  in  command  of  the  bat 
talion. 

Meals  will  be  provided  at  seven,  A.  M.,  and  two  and  seven,  p.  M.,  for 
three  hundred  and  fifty  men. 

JAMES  PRICE, 

Lieutenant-  Colonel  Commanding. 

Other  reductions  of  force  were  subsequently  made,  and 
at  length  the  guard  duty  was  lightened  by  the  two  follow 
ing  orders : — 


THE  DEAFT   RIOTS.  361 

GENERAL  ORDER  No.  6. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT,  N.  Y.  S.  N.  G., 
NEW  YORK,  August  28,  1863. 

By  permission  of  the  Major-General  commanding,  the  order  of  the 
26th  is  so  far  modified  as  to  reduce  the  number  of  men  constantly  on 
duty  at  the  armory  to  one  hundred,  in  addition  to  two  non-commissioned 
officers  from  each  company  not  on  duty,  and  two  non-commissioned  staiF 
officers. 

Companies  H  and  D,  under  the  command  of  the  senior  officer,  will 
commence  the  tour  of  guard  duty  to-morrow,  Saturday  morning,  at  eight 
o'clock,  and  be  relieved  on  Sunday,  the  30th  instant,  by  Companies  A  and 
B,  followed  in  succession,  each  twenty-fbur  hours  thereafter,  by  Compa 
nies  I  and  C,  F  and  G,  and  E  and  K,  until  further  orders. 

Reports  will  made  to  the  Adjutant  in  person,  at  nine,  A.  M.,  each  day. 
By  order  of 

JAMES  PRICE, 
Lieutenant-  Colonel  Commanding. 

GENERAL  ORDER  No.  7. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT,  N.  Y.  S.  N.  G., 
NEW  YORK,  September  1,  1863. 

In  compliance  with  brigade  order  of  this  date,  the  force  on  duty  at  the 
armory  is  reduced  to  twenty-seven  men,  viz.  one  sergeant,  one  corporal, 
fifteen  men,  together  with  one  non-commissioned  officer  from  each  com 
pany  not  on  duty,  in  charge  of  the  company  roster,  and  one  non-com 
missioned  staff  officer. 

Captain  Dutton  will  detail  one  sergeant,  one  corporal,  and  fifteen  men 
from  Company  E  to  report  for  duty  to-morrow  morning,  at  eight 
o'clock,  to  be  relieved  on  Thursday,  the  3d  instant,  by  the  same  comple 
ment  of  men  from  Company  K.  The  other  companies,  with  like  num 
bers,  will  relieve  in  turn  according  to  rank,  until  further  orders. 

By  order  of 

JAMES  PRICE, 
Lieutenant-  Colonel  Commanding. 
W.  H.  HUME,  Adjutant. 

Tims  this  wearisome  epilogue  to  the  Maryland  campaign 
lasted  to  the  10th  of  September,  making  the  tour  of  duty 
for  1863  nearly  a  three  months'  tour  after  all. 

Meanwhile,  however,  the  "  third  campaign  "  proper  had 
been  formally  ended  on  the  21st  of  July,  1863,  when,  for 
the  third  and  last  time  during  the  war,  the  Seventh  Regi- 


362  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

ment  was  mustered  out  of  the  United  States  service,  after 
a  campaign  of  six-and-thirty  days. 

In  his  order,  three  days  later,  expressive  of  thanks  for 
this  campaign,  Governor  Seymour  said  :  — 

"  The  Governor  and  Coinmander-in-Chief  of  the  military  forces  of 
the  State  of  New  York,  upon  the  return  of  those  regiments  of  the 
National  Guard  who,  upon  his  order,  with  a  promptness  and  alacrity 
which  excited  the  admiration  of  the  whole  country,  went  forth  on  a 
sudden  call  of  danger  to  other  States,  expresses  to  them  his  thanks 
for  their  gallant  and  successful  service,  which  has  been  alike  honor 
able  to  them  and  to  the  State  whose  name  and  arms  they  are  proud  to 
bear. 

"  By  the  ready  and  vigorous  assistance  thus  rendered,  the  soil  of  Penn 
sylvania  was  relieved  from  the  presence  of  the  invader,  and  aid  was 
given  to  the  national  armies  which  helped  to  win  the  victories  at  Get 
tysburg. 

"  The  people  of  the  State  of  New  York  will  remember  with  pride  and 
honor  with  praise  their  fellow-citizens  who  had  prepared  themselves 
for  this  great  work  by  a  long  period  of  drill  and  discipline  at  a  time 
when  general  encouragement  was  withheld.  It  required  no  little  moral 
courage  to  uphold  our  militia  system  when  it  had  fallen  into  disrepute ; 
but  this  has  been  done  by  the  citizen  soldiery  of  New  York,  who 
have  nobly  maintained  their  organization,  and  by  their  example  and 
zeal  revived  a  martial  spirit  throughout  the  State  which  we  must  re 
gard  as  our  surest  protection  in  the  hour  of  danger.  It  has  shown  the 
utility  of  that  section  of  our  national  Constitution  which  declares  that  a 
*  well-regulated  militia  being  necessary  for  the  security  of  a  free  State, 
the  right  of  the  people  to  keep  and  bear  arms  shall  not  be  infringed.' 
So  careful  were  our  fathers  upon  this  point,  that  they  exempted  the 
musket  from  seizure  and  sale  before  they  placed  the  tools  of  the  me 
chanic  and  the  implements  of  husbandry  beyond  the  reach  of  the  cred 
itors'  grasp.  They  confided  the  safety  of  the  Republic  to  the  hands  of  its 
citizens,  and  secured  to  them  the  musket  as  they  did  the  ballot,  for  the 
defence  of  their  rights  and  the  protection  of  their  interests.  Time  has 
demonstrated  their  wisdom. 

"  If  our  militia  system  is  allowed  to  decay,  all  our  institutions  are 
weakened.  The  militia  is  the  main  strength  of  the  executive  to  main 
tain  the  laws,  put  down  insurrection,  and  to  repel  invasion. 

"  Within  thirty  days  the  uniformed  militia  of  this  State  have  gone 
forth  to  assist  their  brethren  beyond  our  limits,  and  have  returned  to 
put  down  riot,  arson,  and  robbery  at  home ;  they  have  aided  in  defend- 


THE   DRAFT   RIOTS.  363 

ing  the  national  flag  and  honor  upon  the  battle  fields  of  other  States, 
and,  that  done,  their  tread  upon  the  pavements  of  this  great  city  brought 
back  a  sense  of  security  to  its  disturbed  and  endangered  inhabitants." 

The  arduous  duties  imposed  upon  Colonel  Lefferts  during 
the  hot  summer  of  1863  had  so  impaired  his  health  as  to 
render  it  necessary  for  him  to  tender  his  resignation. 
Already,  on  the  9th  of  March,  1863,  lie  had  resigned  his 
command,  issuing  this  farewell  order :  — 

BROTHER  OFFICERS  AND  SOLDIERS  OF  THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT, 

—  I  am  about  to  issue  my  last  order,  and  to  bid  you  farewell.     The 
older  members  of  the  regiment  especially  can  understand  what  it  costs 
me   to   sever  my   connection   with  those   in   whose   company   I  have 
passed  so  many  pleasant  hours;   but  family  cares  and  business  rela 
tions,  with  constantly  increasing  demands  upon  my  time,  have  long 
since  warned  me  of  the  necessity  of  resigning  my  position  as  your  com 
manding  officer. 

In  the  year  1851  I  was  elected  from  the  ranks  of  the  Eighth  Company 
to  a  commission  as  Major,  a  few  years  later  to  that  of  Lieutenant-Colonel, 
and  for  nearly  four  years  past  I  have  served  as  Colonel  commanding  the 
regiment ;  and  I  have  to  thank  you  most  sincerely  for  your  unwavering 
support,  and  the  cheerful  confidence  with  which  you  have  always  obeyed 
my  orders.  How  far  we  have  been  successful  in  maintaining  the  stand 
ard  and  esprit  de  corps  of  the  regiment  is  shown,  I  think,  by  its  numeri 
cal  strength  and  complete  equipment  and  organization  as  it  stands  to 
day.  Notwithstanding  the  large  demands  upon  our  ranks,  since  the  war 
commenced,  for  officers,  of  whom  we  have  furnished  between  three  and 
four  hundred  of  various  grades,  —  most  of  them  now  serving  in  the  army, 

—  we  have  still  upon  our  rolls  more  than  eleven  hundred  rank  and  file 
who  are  ready  for  duty. 

The  services  which  you  have  performed  during  the  past  two  years 
have  been  honorably  acknowledged  by  the  general  government,  as  well  as 
by  your  own  State ;  and  when  impartial  history  shall  record  the  events 
of  the  mighty  struggle  now  going  on,  the  Seventh  Regiment  will  enjoy 
untarnished  honor,  in  common  with  the  noble  spirits  who  have  flocked 
to  our  country's  standard  to  defend  our  nationality  and  republican  lib 
erty  ;  and  the  names  of  your  comrades,  Winthrop,  Farnham,  Gadsden, 
O'Brien,  and  others,  who  have  fallen  in  the  field  of  battle,  —  now 
shrouded  in  mourning  drapery  on  your  walls,  in  touching  tribute  to 
their  bravery  and  your  loss,  —  will  claim  conspicuous  places  on  the 


364  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

scroll  which  is  to  tell  posterity  of  those  who  died  in  defence  of  the  Con 
stitution  and  the  laws. 

My  proudest  boast  —  the  happiest  of  my  recollections  —  is  that  I  have 
never  asked  of  you  any  service,  or  anything  even  out  of  the  line  of  of 
ficial  duty,  which  has  not  been  most  readily  and  cheerfully  granted. 
These  are  evidences  of  a  friendship  and  mutual  attachment  which  I 
trust  will  still  continue  when  our  official  relations  shah1  have  ceased  to 
exist. 

Let  the  regiment  only  be  true  to  itself,  and  no  defence  of  its  acts  will 
ever  be  needed ;  its  history  will  be  recorded  in  the  hearts  of  our  citizens. 

COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS. 
NEW  YORK,  March  9,  1863. 

Two  days  later,  the  llth  of  March,  Colonel  Lefferts 
transmitted  his  resignation  to  General  Hall,  commanding 
the  Third  Brigade,  with  an  urgent  request  for  its  prompt 
acceptance  at  head-quarters.  But  with  the  resignation 
General  Hall  took  the  liberty  of  enclosing  to  Albany  an 
other  document  on  the  same  subject,  which  had  been  quick 
ly  drawn  up  and  put  into  his  hands,  namely,  a  petition 
signed  by  no  less  than  twenty-four  commissioned  officers 
and  seven  hundred  rank  and  file,  urging  Colonel  Lefferts 
to  remain  in  command,  to  which,  also,  he  appended  his 
own  urgent  official  solicitation.  The  Adjutant-General  re 
sponded,  after  recounting  these  facts  :  "  I  am  instructed  by 
his  Excellency  Governor  Seymour  to  say,  that  with  the 
foregoing  expression  of  opinions,  together  with  his  own 
knowledge  of  your  efficiency  as  a  soldier,  and  added  to 
these  the  appreciation,  at  the  present  time,  of  valuable  of 
ficers  in  the  State  National  Guard,  induce  him  to  ask  you 
to  reconsider  the  matter,  and,  if  possible,  withdraw  your 
resignation." 

Colonel  Lefferts,  upon  these  repeated  solicitations,  in  a 
general  order  conveyed  to  his  regiment  his  "  thanks  for 
their  hearty  expression  of  good-will,  and  desire  that  he 
should  continue  to  command  the  regiment.  The  labor  and 
responsibilities  of  the  post,"  he  added,  "  are  made  far 
lighter,  when  the  commandant  is  generously  supported,  and 


THE   DRAFT   RIOTS.  365 

mutual  confidence  is  made  the  ground  of  success."     And 
to  General  Sprague  he  wrote  on  June  10th :  — 

u  I  had  tendered  my  resignation  of  the  command  of  the  Seventh  Regi 
ment  only  after  mature  consideration,  and  not  without  an  effort  to  sep 
arate  myself  from  honorable  and  agreeable  associations  which  have  al 
ways  attended  it,  and  not  expecting  the  kind  expressions  of  friendship 
and  attachment  from  the  members  of  the  regiment  which  seem  to  have 
reached  his  Excellency  the  Governor  to  influence  him  in  his  decision. 

"  The  desire  expressed  by  my  regiment,  and  the  manner  in  which  it 
was  conveyed,  were  well  calculated  to  shake  my  resolution,  when  I  re 
ceived  the  request  of  the  Commander-in-Chief  that  I  should  reconsider 
my  resignation.  I  sincerely  thank  his  Excellency  for  his  confidence, 
and  the  honor  done  me  by  your  communication  of  the  25th  ultimo. 

"  I  leave  my  resignation  as  Colonel  commanding  the  Seventh  Regi 
ment  in  your  hands,  to  be  taken  up  and  accepted  by  his  Excellency  the 
Governor  whenever  he  may  see  fit  to  do  so.  In  the  mean  time  I  shall 
continue  in  the  performance  of  my  duty." 

The  Maryland  campaign  and  the  riots  of  1863  followed 
close  upon  these  events.  The  Colonel  remained  on  duty 
through  the  summer ;  but  the  condition  of  his  health  made 
it  imperative,  in  his  view,  after  the  duties  of  the  campaign 
were  over,  to  repeat  positively  the  tender  of  his  resignation, 
which  he  did  on  the  1st  of  August,  after  the  riots,  saying, 
in  his  letter :  "  Although  the  reasons  for  relinquishing  my 
command  last  March  were  urgent,  yet  I  did  not  feel  that  I 
could,  with  proper  respect,  insist  upon  its  acceptance  at 
that  time  ;  ....  as  my  health  is  much  impaired,  I  must  add 
this  to  my  former  reasons,  and  respectfully  beg  that  my 
resignation  may  now  be  accepted."  To  avoid,  however, 
directly  accepting  this  resignation,  the  Governor  requested 
Colonel  Lefferts  "  to  continue  the  duties  of  his  present 
grade,"  as  it  was  intended  that  he  should  be  placed  in  com 
mand  of  a  brigade  of  infantry,  to  be  raised  in  New  York, 
with  the  Seventh  Regiment  as  a  nucleus.  Colonel  Lefferts's 
formal  appointment  as  Brigadier-General  was  dated  August 
18,  1863,  but  the  plan  alluded  to  was,  from  various  causes, 
not  carried  into  effect. 


366  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Meanwhile,  the  authorities  at  Albany,  as  has  been  seen, 
granted  Colonel  Lefferts  a  two  months'  leave  of  absence 
from  his  regiment,  for  the  restoration  of  his  health. 

On  the  20th  of  October,  Colonel  LefTerts,  upon  the  expi 
ration  of  this  furlough,  again  resumed  command  of  the 
regiment,  and  in  his  general  order  for  that  purpose 
thanked  Lieutenant-Colonel  Price  "  for  the  care  and  fidelity 
with  which  he  has  performed  his  duties,  and  administered 
the  affairs  of  the  regiment  during  his  temporary  com 
mand."  The  same  order  announced  the  resignation  of 
Captain  and  Brevet-Colonel  H.  C.  Shumway,  commanding 
the  Eighth  Company,  —  an  accomplished  and  experienced 
officer,  whose  services  as  far  back  as  the  Astor  Place  Riots, 
and  farther  yet,  are  mentioned  in  the  first  chapter  of  the 
present  volume,  and  whose  services  throughout  the  war 
have  just  been  recorded.  In  accepting  this  resignation, 
Colonel  Lefferts  said :  "  The  Commandant  expresses  his 
great  regret  at  the  resignation  of  Captain  Shumway ;  his 
faithful  services  of  thirty-Jive  years  have  identified  him  with 
all  the  important  movements  of  the  regiment  during  that 
period  of  time,  and  it  will  always  acknowledge  his  zeal  and 
ability  in  promoting  its  growth  and  efficiency.  He  retires 
with  the  respect  and  good  wishes  of  all  the  members  of  the 
regiment." 

Some  months  later,  a  hostile  invasion  of  the  northern 
frontier  of  New  York  and  Vermont  from  Canada  was  ex 
pected.  Colonel  Lefferts  promptly  addressed  to  General 
Dix  the  following  offer  of  the  services  of  his  regiment,  in 
the  threatened  emergency :  — 

NEW  YORK,  November  12,  1863. 
MAJOR-GENERAL  Dix,  Commanding  Department  of  (lie  East. 

SIR, —  As  circumstances  i^ay  require  a  larger  force  of  troops  than 
you  have  at  your  immediate  disposal  to  guard  the  frontier  of  our  State 
against  the  threatened  invasion  from  Canada  by  secession  sympathizers, 
you  can,  in  case  of  need,  rely  upon  the  support  of  the  regiment  under 
my  command.  They  will  require  no  official  call  of  the  President  of  the 


THE   DRAFT   RIOTS.  367 

United  States,  but  stand  ready  to  preserve  inviolate  their  own  State 
from  the  attempt  herein  referred  to,  or  any  other  of  a  similar  character. 
I  am  compelled  to  leave  in  the  five-o'clock  train  for  Troy.  I  can  return 
at  a  moment's  notice,  and  a  few  hours  will  suffice  'for  the  regiment  to 
move.  Inquiry  at  General  Telegraph  Office  will  find  me. 
I  am,  General,  your  obedient  servant, 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS. 

This  letter  General  Dix  acknowledged  in  a  warm  letter 
of  thanks,  through  Major  Bolles,  of  his  staff,  who  said : 
"  The  General  directs  me  to  express  to  you  his  hearty 
thanks  for  the  offer  of  your  regiment  to  guard  the  frontier 
of  New  York.  He  has  returned  from  Buffalo,  and  thinks 
he  will  not  need  to  avail  himself  of  the  services  of  that 
regiment  which  has  so  gallantly  signalized  itself  hereto 
fore  by  its  prompt  patriotism  and  great  efficiency." 

In  February,  1864,  Major  Nevers  resigned.  Captains 
Emmons  Clark  and  George  T.  Haws  were  successively 
elected  to  fill  the  vacancy,  and  successively  declined.  On 
the  31st  of  May,  Captain  Joseph  B.  Young  was  elected 
Major,  and  accepted. 

Early  in  February,  1864,  measures  were  adopted  by 
Colonel  Lefferts  and  his  officers  to  secure  the  co-operation 
of  the  regiment  in  the  famous  Soldiers'  Fair,  held  in  New 
York  soon  after.  A  committee  was  appointed,  of  which 
the  Colonel  was  made  chairman,  and  a  subscription  raised, 
whose  result  was  highly  creditable  to  the  liberality  of  the 
regiment.  The  following  was  the  order  announcing  the 
result :  — 

GENERAL   ORDER  No.   9. 
HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT,  NATIONAL  GUARDS, 

NEW  YORK,  June  2,  1864. 

The  commandant  of  the  regiment  announces  with  great  pleasure  the 
following  report  of  the  Treasurer,  in  reference  to  the  contributions  of  the 
members  for  the  relief  of  the  noble  sick  and  wounded  of  our  army  :  — 

NEW  YORK,  May  1,  1864. 

COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Chairman  of  Committee  on  Metropoli 
tan  Fair. 
SIR,  —  The  following  amounts  were  received  by  the  Treasurer,  in  aid 


368  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

of  the  Metropolitan  Fair,  for  the  benefit  of  the  United  States  Sanitary- 
Commission  :  — 

Field  and  staff $190.00 

First  Company 528.00 

Second  Company  .         .         .         .         .         .  1,850.00 

Third  Company         .         .         .         .         .         .         .  463  00 

Fourth  Company  .         .         .         .         .          .         .  570.50 

Fifth  Company 544.00 

Sixth  Company 1,816.00 

Seventh  Company 621.00 

Eighth  Company  ...         ....  630.00 

Ninth  Company        .         .  *               .         .        ".         .  743.00 

Tenth  Company 573.00 

Non-commissioned  staff    ......  55.00 


Total      .         .         .         .         .  .         .      $  8,583.50 

TREASURER'S  OFFICE,  METROPOLITAN  FAIR, 

April  22,  1864. 

CAPTAIN  EMMONS  CLARK,  Treasurer  of  the  Seventh  Regiment. 

SIR,  —  The  Treasurer  of  the  Metropolitan  Fair  begs  to  acknowledge 
the  receipt  of  $  8,583.50  from  fhe  members  of  the  Seventh  Regiment, 
and  to  express  the  gratification  with  which  the  contribution  has  been 
received  from  a  regiment  so  much  respected  at  home,  and  who  have 
done  so  much,  through  their  officers  and  collectively,  to  vindicate  the 
honor  of  the  flag  in  the  field. 

ELLEN  R.  STRONG,  Treasurer. 

By  order  of  Colonel  Marshall  Lefferts. 

WM.  II.  HUME,  Adjutant.  > 

Early  in  June,  1864,  General  Lefferts,  after  fourteen  years' 
service  in  the  Seventh  Regiment,  procured  the  acceptance 
of  his  long-tendered  resignation.  Originally  raised  from 
his  position  as  private  in  the  ranks  to  the  grade  of  field 
officer, —  an  honor  without  parallel  in  the  regimental  his 
tory,  —  he  had  served  thirteen  years  successively  as  Major, 
Lieutenant-Colonel,  and  Colonel,  commanding  the  regiment 
through  the  most  trying,  useful,  and  brilliant  years  which 
its  annals  record.  Though  retired  from  the  active  regiment, 
General  Lefferts  was  chosen  the  Commandant  of  the  Vet 
eran  Corps,  on  a  vacancy  occurring  in  that  body,  which 
position  he  holds  at  this  present  writing. 


THE   DRAFT   RIOTS.  369 

On  the  21st  of  June,  Captain  Emmons  Clark  was  elected 
Colonel  of  the  regiment.  In  July,  Lieutenant-Colonel  Price1 
resigned  his  commission ;  and,  on  the  18th  of  August,  Cap 
tain  George  T.  Haws  was  elected  Lieutenant-Colonel. 

At  a  meeting  of  the  board  of  officers  held  on  the  1st 
of  July,  on  motion  of  Lieutenant  Ryder,  a  committee  was 
appointed  "  to  procure  a  site  for  a  monument  to  the  mem 
bers  of  the  Seventh  Regiment  who  have  been  killed,  or  have 
died  of  disease  or  wounds,  while  in  the  service  of  the 
United  States  during  the  great  Rebellion."  This  committee 
recommended  that  the  monument  should  be  erected  in  the 
Central  Park,  and  was  accordingly  directed  to  make  appli 
cation  to  the  Park  Commissioners  for  a  proper  site.  The 
application  was  not  favorably  received,  the  chief  objections 
being  that  a  monument  of  the  character  proposed  would 
give  a  sepulchral  appearance  to  the  Park,  and  furnish  a 
precedent  for  similar  applications  from  other  military 
organizations.  We  shall  presently  see  what  conclusions 
were  afterwards  reached  on  this  subject. 

On  the  2d  of  May,  1864,  a  committee  had  been  appointed, 
consisting  of  three  officers  and  three  non-commissioned  offi 
cers  and  privates  from  each  company,  to  consider  a  pro 
posed  change  in  the  uniform.  During  the  three  campaigns 
of  the  regiment  in  1861,  1862,  and  1863,  the  uniforms  of 
many  members  had  been  almost  worn  out,  and  the  question 
for  decision  was,  whether  the  old  pattern  should  be  followed 
or  a  new  one  selected,  more  adapted  for  use  in  field  or 
camp.  On  the  3d  of  October,  the  board  of  officers  voted  to 
submit  to  the  rank  and  file  the  following  questions :  — 

"  1.  Are  you  willing  to  change  the  uniform,  if  the  Quartermaster-Gen 
eral  will  allow  to  this  regiment  the  same  amount  per  man  which  is  ex 
pended  in  uniforming  other  regiments  of  the  National  Guard  ? 

"  2.  Do  you  desire  that  the  new  uniform  shall  be  gray  ? 

"  3.  Do  you  desire  to  change  the  style  and  adopt  the  French  Chas 
seur  ?  " 

24 


370  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


vote  resulted  in  favor  of  a  change,  but  gray  was  to 
tfe  retained  as  the  distinctive  color  of  the  regimental  uni 
form  . 

In  the  autumn  of  1864,  the  regiment  performed  some  an 
noying  and  monotonous  guard  duty  at  the  armory.  The 
exciting  presidential  contest  and  the  renewal  of  the  draft 
led  the  authorities  to  take  various  precautions  against  a 
repetition  of  the  riots  of  1863,  and  the  guard  at  the  armory 
was  designed  not  only  to  protect,  if  required,  the  arms  there 
stored,  but  to  summon  absent  members  promptly,  and  be 
ready  at  short  notice  to  quell  any  disorder. 

Besides  the  Fourth-of-July  parade,  and  the  October  pa 
rade  and  review  for  inspection  (when  the  number  present 
was  seven  hundred  and  eighty-nine),  the  regiment  paraded, 
by  order  of  General  Sandford,  on  the  19th  of  September, 
1864,  as  funeral  escort  to  Colonel  W.  T.  C.  Grower,  Seven 
teenth  New  York  Veteran  Volunteers,  killed  at  the  battle 
of  Jonesboro',  Tennessee  ;  and  the  same  duty  was  per 
formed  on  the  3d  of  November  by  the  right  wing,  in  honor 
of  Lieutenant-Colonel  Higginbotham,  Sixty-Fifth  New  York 
Volunteers,  killed  at  Cedar  Creek  on  the  19th  of  October. 
On  the  31st  of  December,  1864,  the  regiment  paraded,  by 
order  of  General  Sandford,  as  escort  to  the  remains  of  Hon. 
William  L.  Dayton,  Minister  to  France. 

On  the  22d  of  February,  1865,  the  regiment  paraded  (to 
quote  the  language  of  the  regimental  order)  "  to  celebrate 
the  glorious  success  of  General  Sherman  and  his  gallant 
army  ;  the  restoration  of  our  national  flag  to  Fort  Sumter  ; 
and  the  capture  of  Charleston,  the  cradle  of  the  Rebellion." 
On  the  4th  of  March  occurred  the  parade  of  the  First  Divis 
ion,  to  celebrate  the  victories  of  the  Union  Army. 

At  a  meeting  of  the  board  of  officers,  on  the  1st  of 
April,  it  was  resolved  to  celebrate  the  anniversary  of  the 
departure  of  the  regiment  for  Washington  in  1861,  and  the 
following  order  was  issued  :  — 


THE  DRAFT   RIOTS.  371 

GENERAL  ORDER  No.  8. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT  NATIONAL  GUARD,  S.  N.  Y., 
NEW  YORK,  April  10, 1865.   ' 

To  celebrate  the  anniversary  of  the  departure  of  this  regiment  for 
Washington,  on  the  19th  day  of  April,  1861,  to  defend  the  national 
capital,  then  in  imminent  danger,  and  in  honor  of  the  recent  brilliant 
victories  of  the  Union  armies,  resulting  in  the  suppression  of  the  great 
Rebellion,  it  is  ordered  that  the  regimental  armory  be  illuminated  on  the 
evening  of  the  19th  of  April,  and  that  a  salute  of  one  hundred  guns  be 
fired  at  eight  o'clock,  p.  M. 

The  armory,  finance,  and  music  committees,  and  the  board  of  officers, 
will  act  as  a  committee  of  arrangements  for  this  celebration. 

Captain  Rogers  and  his  command  are  detailed  to  fire  the  salute. 
By  order  of  Colonel  Emmons  Clark, 

J.  H.  LIEBENAU,  Adjutant. 

Arrangements  were  already  completed  for  a  grand  cele 
bration,  when  the  city  and  the  'whole  country  were  startled 
and  horrified  by  the  news  of  the  assassination  of  Abraham 
Lincoln,  President  of  the  United  States.  The  following 
order  was  immediately  issued :  — 

GENERAL  ORDER  No.  9. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT  NATIONAL  GUARD,  S.  N.  Y., 

NEW  YORK,  April  15,  1865. 

In  view  of  the  great  calamity  which  has  befallen  the  nation,  in  the 
death  of  its  beloved  Chief  Magistrate,  General  Order  No.  8  (for  the  illu 
mination  of  the  regimental  armory,  and  the  celebration" of  the  recent  vic 
tories  of  the  Union  armies)  is  hereby  countermanded. 

The  armory  committee  will  immediately  drape  the  regimental  armory 
and  the  council-room  of  the  board  of  officers  with  mourning,  and  the 
committees  of  the  several  companies  are  directed  to  drape  their  respec 
tive  rooms  with  the  usual  emblems  of  mourning. 

By  order  of  Colonel  Emmons  Clark, 

J.  H;  LIEBENAU,  Adjutant. 

Major-General  Sandford,  commanding  the  First  Division, 
honored  the  regiment  by  detailing  it  as  especial  escort  and 
guard  of  honor  to  the  remains  of  President  Lincoln  upon 
their  arrival  in  New  York,  and  while  they  remained  in  the 
city.  The  following  is  the  regimental  order :  - 


372  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

GENERAL  ORDER  No.  10. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT  NATIONAL  GUARD,  S.  N.  Y., 
April  20,  1865. 

I.  In  compliance  with  division  and  brigade  orders,  this  regiment  will 
parade  as  special  escort  to  the  remains  of  our  late  President,  Abraham 
Lincoln,  on  Monday,  24th  instant,  fully  uniformed  and  equipped  (with 
out  overcoats  or  knapsacks)  and  with  the  usual  badge  of  mourning  upon 
the  left  arm.     Roll-call  of  companies  at  half  past  seven  o'clock,  A.  M. 

II.  This  regiment  will  also  parade,  fully  uniformed   and   equipped, 
(without   overcoats  or   knapsacks),  on    Tuesday,    25th   instant.    Roll- 
call  of  companies  at  half  past  nine  o'clock,  A.  M. 

III.  Companies  D,  B,  and  H,  Captains  Riblet,  Palmer,  and  Smith,  are 
detailed  for  special  duty  at  the  City  Hall. 

By  order  of  Colonel  Emmons  Clark, 

J.  H.  LIEBENAU,  Adjutant. 

The  solemn  pomp  of  the  President's  funeral  in  New  York, 
the  reception  of  the  remains,  their  removal  to  the  City  Hall, 
the  guard  duty  there  performed  by  the  Seventh  Regiment, 
the  division  parade  on  the  following  day,  when  the  Seventh 
acted  as  special  escort  to  the  remains  as  they  moved  in 
stately  procession  through  the  city  to  the  Hudson  River 
Railroad  Depot,  —  these  well-remembered  incidents  of  that 
terrible  epoch  when  a  nation  was  bowed  in  sincere  grief  are 
sad  but  proud  incidents  in  the  regimental  history.  Colonel 
Clark  and  Lieutenant-Colonel  Haws  were  selected  from  the 
regimental  officers  of  the  First  Division,  by  Major-General 
Dix,  to  act  with  the  officers  of  the  army  and  navy  as  im 
mediate  attendants  or  guards  to  the  remains  of  the  Presi 
dent,  while  they  lay  in  state  in  City  Hall. 


SINCE   THE   WAR. 


373 


CHAPTER  XIX 


SINCE   THE   WAR. 


0  closing  the  regimental 
story  which  has  occupied 
the  pages  of  this  volume 
brief  space  must  be  al 
lotted.  For,  as  it  was 
fitting  and  necessary  to 
preface  that  story  with 
some  account  of  the  ori 
gin  of  the  Seventh  Regi 
ment  and  its  annals  before 
the  war,  so  those  who  have 
followed  the  narrative  of 
the  three  campaigns  to  the 
end  will  naturally  demand 
a  few  words  touching  the 
regiment's  subsequent  for 
tunes  and  its  present  con 
dition.  This  brief  account 
I  now  proceed  to  give,  fol 
lowing  as  nearly  as  possible  the  chronological  order  of 
events. 

The  first  noteworthy  parade  of  the  regiment  after  the  war 
was  in  honor  of  the  returning  Sixty-Fifth  New  York  Volun 
teers,  whose  close  connection  with  the  Seventh  is  expressed 
in  the  following  General  Order :  — 


374  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

GENERAL  ORDER  No.  15. 

HEAD-QUARTERS  SEVENTH  REGIMENT  NATIONAL  GUARD,  S.  N.  Y., 
NEW  YORK,  July  19,  1865. 

This  regiment  will  parade  in  full  fatigue,  gray  trousers  (without  knap 
sacks),  on  Saturday,  22d  instant,  to  receive  and  escort  the  Sixty-Fifth 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  on  its  return  from  long  and  distin 
guished  service  in  the  field. 

The  nation  owes  a  debt  of  gratitude  to  its  gallant  defenders  which  it 
can  never  repay,  and  every  member  of  the  Seventh  should  unite  in  this 
humble  tribute  of  welcome  to  the  brave  and  patriotic  soldiers  of  the 
Republic.  The  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (United 
States  Chasseurs),  was,  at  its  organization,  almost  entirely  officered  by 
members  of  the  Seventh.  Their  brilliant  career  reflects  honor  on  our 
organization,  and  the  names  of  Generals  Shaler,  Hamblin,  Gurney,  and 
many  others  will  live  forever  upon  the  pages  of  American  history.  Let 
them  realize,  by  a  warm  and  generous  reception,  that  they  have  not 
been  forgotten  by  their  comrades,  and  that  patriotism  never  fails  to  re 
ceive  the  affection  and  respect  of  the  young  men  of  New  York. 
By  order  of  Colonel  Emmons  Clark, 

J.  H.  LIEBENAU,  Adjutant. 

The  several  companies  having  approved  the  proposed 
changes  in  uniform,  the  hoard  of  officers  sanctioned  them  in 
July.  The  new  uniform  consisted  of  gray  chasseur  jacket 
and  trousers  and  fatigue-cap.  Until  the  uniform  coat,  worn 
before  the  war,  should  be  resumed,  it  was  voted,  that,  for 
full  uniform,  epaulettes  with  black  fringe  should  be  worn 
with  the  jackets,  and  a  uniform  hat  of  modern  pattern,  with 
black  plume.  In  this  new  uniform  the  regiment  paraded  at 
the  annual  inspection  of  October  20,  1865  ;  but  the  change 
was  not  received  with  favor  by  the  friends  of  the  regiment  or 
by  the  public  generally.  The  new  uniform  was  pronounced 
sombre  and  heavy  in  appearance,  and  the  style  of  jacket  and 
trousers,  however  well  adapted  to  active  service,  was  not  suf 
ficiently  attractive  in  days  of  peace  for  a  regiment  of  the 
National  Guard.  The  subject  of  another  change  was  con 
stantly  agitated  from  that  time  forward,  until,  in  1867,  the 
members  voted,  by  a  considerable  majority,  to  resume,  with 
out  important  change,  the  uniform  as  worn  before  the  war. 


SINCE   THE   WAR.  375 

On  the  12th  of  August,  1865,  the  following  order  was 
issued,  being  a  part  of  General  Order  No.  17  :  — 

A  committee  of  the  board  of  officers  has  been  appointed  to  select  a 
site  for  a  monument  to  those  members  of  this  regiment  who  have  been 
killed,  or  have  died  from  disease  or  wounds  while  in  the  service  of  their 
country,  during  the  great  Rebellion.  The  Fourth  Company  has  in 
augurated  measures  for  a  most  liberal  contribution  to  the  Seventh 
Regiment  Monumental  Fund,  and  it  is  respectfully  recommended  that 
all  the  companies  .appoint  committees  to  co-operate  in  securing  the  suc 
cess  of  this  most  patriotic  and  noble  object.  No  tribute  is  too  great 
and  no  honor  undeserved  to  the  memory  of  our  comrades  who  have  shed 
their  blood  in  the  defence  of  free  institutions,  and  who  have  bravely  died 
that  the  country  might  live. 

By  order  of  Colonel  Emmons  Clark, 

J.  H.  LIEBENAU,  Adjutant. 

During  a  visit  of  Lieutenant-General  Grant  to  New  York 
in  November,  1865,  the  regiment  was  detailed  to  escort 
him,  on  the  21st,  from  the  Fifth  Avenue  Hotel  to  the  foot  of 
Cortlandt  Street,  on  his  return  to  Washington ;  but  the 
rain  falling  in  torrents  on  that  day,  the  General  sent  a  de 
spatch  requesting  that  the  parade  might  on  that  account  be 
omitted.  The  regiment  had  previously,  in  July,  serenaded 
General  Grant  at  the  Astor  House,  in  presence  of  a  large 
concourse  of  enthusiastic  spectators  ;  and  about  the  same 
time  the  officers  had  given  to  General  Sherman  and  staff  a 
dinner  at  Delmonico's.  At  the  annual  (October)  inspection 
in  Washington  Square,  there  were  present  a  total  of  eight 
hundred  and  fifty-five. 

The  31st  of  January,  1863,  was  made  illustrious  in  the 
records  of  the  regiment  by  its  reception,  at  the  Academy  of 
Music,  of  those  members  who  had  served  in  the  army  and 
navy  of  the  United  States  during  the  war, —  the  most  bril 
liant  levee  of  this  character  ever  given  in  New  York.  The 
rapid  resume  to  which  perforce  this  chapter  is  limited  for 
bids  any  detailed  description  of  this  famous  pageant,  but 
I  cannot  forbear  quoting  a  few  paragraphs  from  the  ad- 


376  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

dress  of  Major- General  Dix  on  that  occasion.  In  intro 
ducing  General  Dix,  Colonel  Clark  said :  — 

"  To  the  members  who  have  served  in  the  army  and  navy  of  the 
United  States  during  the  great  Rebellion,  the  Seventh  Regiment  of  New 
York  extends  a  hearty  welcome.  The  dangers  of  the  battle-field  are 
past ;  you  have  exchanged  the  hardships  of  the  camp,  the  bivouac,  and 
the  march  for  the  pleasures  of  your  own  happy  homes,  and  now  your 
former  comrades,  publicly  recognizing  your  devotion  to  the  flag  of  the 
Union,  open  wide  the  doors  of  hospitality.  We  have  watched  with 
pride  your  brilliant  career  during  four  long  years  of  civil  war ;  we  have 
sympathized  with  you  in  defeat,  and  rejoiced  with  you  in  victory;  and 
with  peace  smiling  once  more  on  our  beloved  land,  we  meet  to-night  to 
honor  your  patriotism  and  pay  a  tribute  to  your  bravery.  I  have  the 
honor  of  introducing  to  you,  as  the  representative  of  the  Seventh  Regi 
ment  on  this  pleasant  occasion,  the  distinguished  statesman,  soldier,  and 
patriot,  Major-General  John  A.  Dix." 

In  the  course  of  his  address,  General  Dix  said  :  — 

"  At  the  outbreak  of  the  Rebellion,  when  the  Sixth  Massachusetts 
Regiment  was  attacked  at  Baltimore,  and  the  deepest  concern  was  felt 
for  the  safety  of  the  capital,  you  were  among  the  first  to  hurry  to  the 
scene  of  action.  A  gentleman  high  in  position  at  Washington  gave  me, 
two  or  three  years  ago,  an  account  of  the  condition  of  things  there  at 
the  time  of  your  arrival.  Open  communication  with  the  North  had 
been  entirely  suspended;  railroad  travel,  and  the  transportation  of 
the  mails  through  the  State  of  Maryland,  had  been  broken  up  by  force ; 
and  no  intelligence  could  be  obtained  from  the  loyal  portions  of  the 
Union,  except  through  secret  messengers  and  couriers,  whose  journeys 
were  always  performed  with  difficulty,  and  sometimes  not  without  abso 
lute  danger.  At  this  juncture,  when  all  was  uncertainty  and  doubt, 
when  each  revolving  hour  came  freighted  with  some  new  burden  of 

£3  .  & 

anxiety  or  peril,  a  column  of  armed  men,  with  bayonets  glittering  in  the 
sunlight,  was  seen  entering  the  Pennsylvania  Avenue,  near  the  capitol ; 
and  the  feeling  of  relief  and  security  was  unspeakable  when  the  welcome 
intelligence  spread  throughout  the  city,  as  if  by  some  magnetic  influence, 
that  the  Seventh  New  York  had  come  to  oppose  to  the  gathering  co 
horts  of  treason  the  asgis  of  its  discipline  and  its  name. 

"Tn  the  early  spring  of  1862,  when  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  was 
lying  before  Richmond,  when  Washington  and  Baltimore  and  the  ad 
jacent  country  were  almost  denuded  of  troops,  and  there  were  well- 
grounded  apprehensions  of  a  Rebel  raid  from  the  Valley  of  the  Slienan- 


SINCE   THE    WAR.  377 

doah,  you  volunteered  your  services  a  second  time.  I  was  in  command 
at  Baltimore  when  you  arrived  there  with  your  gallant  companions,  the 
Twenty-Second,  the  Thirty- Seventh,  the  Sixty-Ninth,  the  Seventy-First, 
and,  I  believe,  some  other  New  York  regiments,  whose  numbers  I  cannot 
at  this  moment  recollect.  You  were  detained  at  Baltimore  by  the  gov 
ernment,  at  my  special  request,  and  during  a  large  portion  of  this  term 
of  your  service  you  occupied  the  post  of  honor,  —  Federal  Hill,  —  that  re 
markable  promontory  rising  up  in  the  heart  of  the  city,  and  seeming  to 
be  placed  there  by  Nature  as  a  site  for  a  citadel.  When  you  occupied 
it,  it  was  crowned  by  a  fort,  as  you  see  it  before  you  (pointing  to  a 
painting  representing  it),  built  in  the  summer  of  1861  to  protect  the 
city  from  external  attack,  and,  if  need  be,  to  defend  the  city  against 
itself.  Happily,  the  unshaken  loyalty  of  the  Baltimoreans,  through  all 
trials  and  temptations,  rendered  the  latter  service  unnecessary.  In  the 
summer  of  1863,  when  General  Lee  invaded  the  State  of  Maryland  with 
a  powerful  army,  you  volunteered  your  services  a  third  time,  and  were 
assigned  by  the  government  to  the  defence  of  the  city  of  Baltimore,  on 
which  an  attack  was  considered  imminent.  During  a  portion  of  this 
third  term  of  service  you  were  again  in  the  occupation  of  Fort  Federal 
Hill,  and  during  the  residue  on  duty  in  the  interior  of  Maryland,  re 
maining  in  the  field  until  after  General  Lee  had  retreated  beyond  the 
Potomac.  You  were  then  suddenly  recalled  here  to  assist  in  quelling 
the  riot,  and  your  reappearance  had  a  powerful  influence  in  restoring 
order  and  saving  the  city  from  further  depredation. 

"In  the  summer  of  1864,  when  Rebel  raiders  from  Canada  were 
plundering  our  frontier,  you  tendered  your  services  to  me  as  com 
manding  officer  of  this  department;  and  they  would  have  been  accepted, 
had  not  some  new  regiments,  which  had  never  been  in  the  field,  claimed 
the  privilege  of  serving  the  country.  Most  fortunate  and  enviable  is  the 
comm.unity.in  which  the  emulation  of  its  citizens  is,  not  to  evade  military 
duty,  but  to  be  received  into  the  public  service  and  to  be  assigned  to 
posts  of  danger.  Giving  you  all  the  praise  which  is  most  eminently 
your  due  for  your  promptitude,  your  patriotic  spirit,  and  your  alacrity 
on  all  occasions  in  accepting  and  courting  military  service,  yet  the 
crowning  distinction  of  your  regiment  is  in  the  large  number  of  officers 
which  you  have  furnished  for  other  organizations. 

"  I  hold  in  my  hand  a  roll  of  five  hundred  and  fifty-seven  members  of 
your  regiment  who  received  commissions  in  the  army,  the  navy,  or  the 
volunteer  service.  Nine  tenths  of  the  number  were  serving  with  the 
regiment  when  the  war  broke  out.  Three  rose  to  the  rank  of  major- 
general,  nineteen  to  the  rank  of  brigadier-general,  twenty-nine  to  the 
rank  of  colonel,  and  forty-six  to  the  rank  of  lieutenant-colonel.  Many 


378  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

whose  names  are  on  this  roll  of  honor  are  sleeping  in  soldiers'  graves. 
Others  are  moving  about  with  mutilated  limbs  and  with  frames  scarred 
by  honorable  wounds,  the  silent  but  expressive  memorials  of  faithful  and 
heroic  service.  For  years  before  the  war  you  devoted  yourselves  with 
an  assiduity  and  a  zeal  worthy  of  all  commendation  to  martial  exercises, 
and  I  believe  I  may  safely  say  that  there  was  scarcely  a  man  in  your 
ranks  who  was  not  capable  of  leading  other  men,  of  commanding  a 
platoon,  a  company,  a  battalion,  or  a  regiment.  And  the  gratifying  re 
sult  is,  that  under  nearly  every  battle-flag  which  the  State  of  New  York 
unfurled  you  had  an  honored  representative.  The  historian  Justin,  in 
his  account  of  the  preparations  of  Alexander  the  Great  for  his  Asiatic 
expedition,  says  that  some  of  the  corps  he  organized  were  so  well  dis 
ciplined  that  one  would  have  considered  them  not  so  much  soldiers  as 
the  chosen  leaders  of  soldiers.  '  Non  tarn  milites  quam  magistros  militias 
electos  putares.'  You  have  fairly  earned  the  same  praise,  and  are  justly 
entitled  to  the  honorable  appellation  of  mililice  magistri,  —  the  leaders  of 
soldiers." 

The  net  receipts  of  this  reception  were  about  $  4,000,  — 
a  sum  appropriated,  by  vote 'of  the  board  of  officers,  to  the 
fund  for  the  erection  of  a  monument  to  the  fallen  heroes. 

I  must  pass,  with  brief  mention,  the  brigade  field-day  of 
June  13th  ;  the  annual  parade  of  July  4th  ;  the  divisional 
parade  of  August  29th  to  receive  President  Johnson ;  the 
parade  and  drill  of  September  5th  (with  a  review  by  Mayor 
Hoffman)  at  Tompkins  Square,  in  honor  of  the  completion, 
by  the  Street  Department,  of  that  new  city  parade-ground, 
set  apart  by  act  of  the  Legislature  ;  the  annual  October  in 
spection,  at  which  seven  hundred  and  eight  were  present ; 
and  the  Evacuation-day  parade. 

In  June  the  American  citizens  resident  in  Paris  gave  the 
regiment  an  invitation  to  visit  that  city  during  the  Exposi 
tion  of  1867.  The  proposed  trip  was  for  several  months  a 
topic  of  conversation  and  discussion  among  the  active  and 
exempt  members,  and  attracted  much  attention  in  business 
and  commercial  circles.  The  subject  was  referred  to  a 
committee  consisting  of  Captains  George  William  Smith, 
Peter  Palmer,  and  William  H.  Kipp ;  and  these  officers, 


SINCE   THE   WAR.  379 

after  giving  the  subject  a  thorough  and  careful  considera 
tion,  presented  their  views  to  the  regiment,  and  the  ques 
tion  was  submitted  to  a  vote  of  the  members. 

The  vote  of  the  members  having  been  duly  canvassed, 
the  board  of  officers  determined  to  decline  the  invitation. 
Although  a  very  large  number  of  the  members  were  willing 
to  incur  the  necessary  expenditure  of  time  and  money,  it 
was  decided  that  the  future  welfare  of  the  regiment  might 
be  endangered  by  so  great  a  tax  upon  it.  The  decision  of 
the  regiment  was  received  in  Paris  with  many  expressions 
of  regret,  and  efforts  were  made  to  secure  a  further  consid 
eration  of  the  subject.  Arrangements  had  been  substan 
tially  perfected  for  the  reception  and  entertainment  of  the 
regiment,  and  there  was  every  probability  that  the  visit  of 
the  Seventh  Regiment  to  France  and  England  would  have 
been  the  occasion  of  an  interchange  of  memorable  national 
courtesies.  The  following  was  the  official  correspondence 
between  General  Dix  and  Colonel  Clark :  — 

PARIS,  January  25,  1867. 

COLONEL  EMMONS  CLARK,  Seventh  Regiment  New  York  National  Guard. 
SIR,  —  I  have  received  a  letter  from  the  Minister  of  Foreign  Affairs, 
inquiring  whether  'k  a  delegation  from  the  militia  of  New  York  "  was  to 
be  here  during  the  Exposition.  The  Minister  stated  that  the  Emperor 
had  received  from  Colonel  Norton  the  intelligence  that  such  a  delegation 
would  be  sent,  and  thereupon  orders  were  given  to  prepare  for  their  re 
ception.  I  answered  that  I  had  no  official  information  on  the  subject ; 
that  I  did  not  think  the  militia  of  New  York  had  ever  taken  action  with 
a  view  to  send  a  delegation  here ;  that  a  number  of  American  gentle 
men  had  proposed  to  the  Seventh  Regiment  New  York  National  Guard, 
a  corps  which  had  been  greatly  distinguished  for  many  years,  to  visit 
Paris  during  the  Exposition,  but  that  I  did  not  think  the  proposition  had 
yet  been  favorably  responded  to  by  the  regiment,  and  added  that  I 
would  write  and  ascertain  what  probability  there  was  that  the  proposi 
tion  would  be  accepted ;  and  I  concluded  by  saying  that  in  any  event 
the  militia  of  New  York  would  be  greatly  honored  by  the  Emperor's 
order,  and  by  the  attention  given  to  the  matter  by  his  ministers.  .... 
I  am  very  respectfully  yours, 

JOHN  A.  Dix. 


380  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

NEW  YORK,  February  20,  1867. 
GENERAL  JOHN  A.  Dix,  Minister  Plenipotentiary,  Paris. 

SIR,  —  I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  communi 
cation  of  the  25th  ultimo,  and  would  respectfully  reply  :  That  during  the 
summer  of  1866  an  invitation,  signed  by  a  large  number  of  American 
citizens  resident  in  Paris,  was  received  by  this  regiment  to  visit  that 
city  during  the  Great  Exposition  in  1867;  that  upon  due  consideration 
of  the  subject  the  regiment  decided  for  various  reasons  to  decline  the 
invitation,  and  such  decision  was  communicated  to  Rev.  Mr.  Burlingame 
and  others,  under  date  of  November  26,  1866;  that  the  regiment  has 
given  the  matter  no  further  consideration  ;  and  that  there  is  no  probabil 
ity  or  possibility  that  it  will,  under  any  circumstances  whatsoever,  visit 
Paris  during  the  present  year. 

For  the  interest  which  Colonel  Norton  and  many  other  distinguished 
American  citizens  resident  in  Paris  have  taken  in  this  subject,  and  for 
their  flattering  assurances  that  a  visit  to  Paris  by  this  regiment  would 
not  be  prejudicial  to  the  good  name  of  our  country  in  Europe,  I  desire, 
in  behalf  of  my  command,  to  express  the  most  grateful  acknowledgments. 
To  the  Minister  of  Foreign  Affairs,  who  has  inquired  of  you  as  to  the 
probability  of  a  visit  of  this  regiment  to  Paris  in  1867,  and  has  informed 
you  of  the  orders  of  the  Emperor  to  prepare  for  its  reception,  you  will 
be  so  kind  as  to  express  our  high  appreciation  of  the  distinguished 
honor. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

EMMONS  CLARK, 

Colonel  Commanding  Seventh  Regiment  National  Guard,  S.  JV.  Y. 

Complimentary  resolutions  were  adopted  by  the  regiment, 
thanking  Colonel  Norton,  American  Commissioner  in  Paris, 
for  the  services  just  alluded  to. 

Early  in  1867,  the  Central  Park  Commissioners  adopted 
the  following  resolution  :  — 

"Resolved,  That  the  Comptroller  of  the  Park  be  authorized  to  set 
apart  the  site  hereafter  mentioned,  upon  which  the  Seventh  Regiment 
Monumental  Association  may  erect  a  monumental  structure,  provided 
that  neither  such  structure,  nor  any  of  its  appendages,  be  of  a  sepulchral 
character,  and  that  the  design  and  plan  of  said  structure  shall  be  sub 
mitted  to  and  approved  by  this  board  before  any  site  be  set  apart ;  and 
provided,  that,  before  any  site  be  set  apart,  the  Association  shall  give 
satisfactory  evidence  to  the  board  of  its  pecuniary  ability  to  complete 


SINCE   THE   WAR.  381 

the  structure,  according  to  such  design  and  plan  as  shall  be  approved 
by  the  board ;  and  provided,  further,  that  said  structure,  when  erected, 
shall  be  subject  to  the  regulations  made  or  to  be  hereafter  established 
by  the  board,  for  the  care  and  preservation  of  monuments,  statuary,  and 
such  other  structures  within  the  Park.  The  site  for  said  structure  shall 
be  either  at  a  point  just  south  of  the  Warriors'  Gate,  or  such  other  point 
as  may  be  approved  by  the  board,  upon  the  report  and  recommendation 
of  the  committee." 

This  offer  was  accepted  by  the  Seventh  Regiment  Monu 
mental  Association  on  the  9th  of  March,  and  the  compa 
nies  were  called  on  to  pledge  sums  sufficient  to  guarantee 
the  success  of  the  enterprise.  In  response,  each  company 
pledged  $ 2,500,  —  a  total  of  125,000  for  the  regiment. 
The  design  and  execution  of  the  monument  were  intrusted 
to  the  distinguished  sculptor,  J.  Q.  A.  Ward.  His  work 
consists  of  a  bronze  statue,  ten  feet  high,  representing  a 
private  soldier  of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  as  he  marched  to 
the  defence  of  the  Union.  A  representation  of  this  statue, 
from  the  pencil  of  Nast,  will  be  found  at  the  head  of  the 
"  Roll  of  Honor  "  in  the  present  volume.  The  cost  of  the 
figure  was  $  23,000.  Designs  were  also  procured  for  the 
base  of  the  monument,  and  the  total  cost  is  estimated  at 
160,000. 

In  April,  Major  Young  resigned  his  commission,  and  on 
the  28th  of  May,  Captain  C.  H.  Meday  was  chosen  to  fill 
the  vacancy.  Early  in  the  year,  a  new  drum  corps,  thirty 
strong,  was  organized,  which  has  been  maintained  with 
success  to  the  present  time.  The  usual  parades  occurred 
during  the  year.  At  the  inspection  in  October,  the  number 
present  was  six  hundred  and  eighty-two. 

Mention  has  been  made  of  the  restoration  of  the  old  uni 
form,  after  the  experiment  with  the  chasseur  style.  The 
first  parade  in  it  (with  a  band  of  one  hundred  pieces)  oc 
curred  May  28,  1868,  and  attracted  great  attention.  The 
regiment  was  reviewed  by  Mayor  Hoffman  at  City  Hall, 


382  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

and  by  Mr.  Burlingame  and  the  Chinese  Ambassadors  at 
Union  Square.  A  circular  and  order  issued  by  Colonel 
Clark  in  October,  1867,  had  fully  explained  why  these 
changes  were  made.  The  uniform  was  now  the  old  style 
dress  uniform  and  white  belt,  the  old  style  fatigue  with 
black  belt,  the  old  regimental  button,  with  white  pompon 
and  epaulettes. 

In  July,  1868,  the  regiment  had  a  very  pleasant  excur 
sion  to  Norwich,  Conn.,  which  is  too  fresh  in  remembrance 
to  require  description  in  this  place.  The  usual  animal 
parades  took  place.  The  number  present  at  the  October 
inspection  was  six  hundred  and  seventy-eight. 

On  the  19th  of  April,  1869,  the  regiment  celebrated  the 
eighth  anniversary  of  that  memorable  "  march  to  the  war  " 
which  forms  the  proudest  chapter  in  its  history.  A  splendid 
floral  display  was  made  at  the  armory,  and  a  stand  of  colors 
was  presented  to  the  regiment  by  Mayor  Hall,  in  behalf  of 
the  city.  Mayor  Hall  said  :  — 

"  COLONEL  EMMONS  CLARK,  AND  GENTLEMEN  OP  THIS  VETERAN 
REGIMENT,  —  The  mutual  relations  existing  between  you  and  the  cor 
porate  authorities,  as  well  as  those  between  you  and  the  nation,  are 
comprehended  by  the  occurrence  that  collects  so  brilliant  an  assemblage 
in  this  armory,  which  is  at  once  your  social  club-room  and  your  school 
of  discipline.  Eight  years  ago  to-night  you  began  your  first  march  to  the 
national  capital  in  defence  of  the  Union  and  Constitution,  and  across 
the  very  threshold  of  those  gates  of  civil  war  which  mad  Rebellion  then 
swung  open.  That  occasion  and  its  memories  are  still  so  vivid  to  us  all, 
that  this  mere  reference  carries  to  every  heart  eulogy  and  honor.  Many 
times  afterward  you  aided  in  protecting  the  national  capital ;  like  as 
for  half  a  century,  parts,  at  least,  of  your  present  organization  have  pro 
tected  this  great  metropolis  during  times  of  impulsive,  riotous  rebellion. 
And  your  fame  has  become  national !  Your  relations  toward  the  cor 
porate  authorities,  whom  I  have  the  honor  to-night  to  represent,  have  also 
been  distinguished  and  are  distinguishing.  City  records  narrate  many 
gifts  of  colors  to  your  military  organization  or  some  of  its  component 
parts.  Names  as  honored  as  those  of  DeWitt  Clinton  and  Philip  Hone 
have  associated  themselves  with  presentation  of  colors  that  you  now 
own,  as  gifts  from  a  grateful  city.  It  may  be  your  proud  boast  that  like 


SINCE   THE  WAR.  383 

as  the  sturdy  oak  which  breasts  all  storms  can  count  its  age  by  annular 
rings,  so  you  can  estimate  your  honorable  years  by  the  many  stands  of 
colors  which  you  have  during  the  past  half-century  received.  To  this 
metropolis  its  volunteer  standing  army  is  a  necessity  of  security.  Even 
its  silent  presence  is  ever  a  potent  weapon  in  the  hands  of  law  and 
order,  and  a  perpetual  menace  to  the  tumultuously  disposed.  In  now 
presenting  these  colors,  the  corporate  authorities  do,  therefore,  simply 
but  worthily  symbol  popular  regard  for  representatives  of  that  standing 
army.  It  is  their  municipal  boast  and  pride  to  give  you  always  the  best 
quarters  and  the  best  civic  welcome  in  return  for  your  volunteer  ser 
vices.  Less  onerous  is  even  large  taxation  for  promoting  the  security 
that  you  and  kindred  organizations  sacrificingly  present  to  the  city,  than 
taxation  sometimes  imposed  through  the  destructive  voice  of  tumult. 
The  corporate  authorities  trust  soon  to  add  to  this  gift  of  flags  the  gift 
of  a  site  for  a  larger  and  more  central  armory.  Receive,  then,  sir,  this 
stand  of  colors,  representing  those  of  State,  city,  and  regiment.  JSTor 
State  nor  city  shall  ever  tremble  for  their  safety  or  honor  while  in  this 
regimental  keeping." 

Iii  reply  to  Mayor  Hall,  Colonel  Clark  said :  — 

"  To  possess  the  respect  and  confidence  of  the  constituted  authorities, 
and  to  secure  the  favor  and  approbation  of  the  public,  are  objects  worthy 
the  ambition  of  citizen  soldiers.  But  objects  so  desirable  are  not  won  in 
a  day,  or  without  earnest,  arduous  labor.  To  this  end,  excellence  in 
drill  and  discipline  are  absolutely  indispensable,  as  well  as  the  utmost 
promptness  in  responding  to  the  calls  of  the  proper  authority  whenever 
the  peace  of  the  city  or  the  property  of  its  citizens  are  in  danger,  or 
when  foes,  foreign  or  domestic,  threaten  the  safety  of  the  State  or  the 
nation.  Nor  is  this  all  that  is  necessary  to  the  permanent  popularity 
and  prosperity  of  a  military  organization.  It  must  confine  itself  strictly 
to  its  legitimate  military  duties ;  it  must  aDstain  from  all  active  interest 
in  those  affairs  upon  which  good  citizens  differ,  and  it  must  impartially 
support  the  chief  magistrates  of  the  city  and  State,  of  whatsoever  party 
or  creed,  in  the  enforcements  of  laws  duly  enacted,  and  in  the  preser 
vation  of  the  public  peace.  Last,  but  not  least,  its  members  must  pos 
sess,  and  on  all  occasions  exhibit,  the  attributes  of  the  gentleman  asiwell 
as  the  soldier.  That  the  efforts  of  the  officers  and  members  of  the 
Seventh  Regiment,  during  the  last  half-century,  to  establish  and  main 
tain  a  military  organization  of  this  character  have  not  been  altogether 
in  vain,  must  be  inferred  from  your  complimentary  allusions  to  its  past 
services,  and  to  the  place  it  now  holds  in  the  hearts  of  the  people  and 
in  the  estimation  of  the  city  authorities.  This  elegant  stand  of  colors, 


384  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

the  gift  of  the  city  of  New  York,  which,  as  its  honored  chief  magistrate, 
you  have  this  night  presented  to  the  Seventh  Regiment,  is  received  by 
its  officers  and  members  with  hearts  overflowing  with  gratitude.  To 
merit  this  munificent  testimonial  of  public  approbation  shall  be  our 
earnest  effort.  In  the  future  as  in  the  past,  may  this  regiment  be  found 
ever  ready  to  defend  the  honor  of  our  beloved  city,  and  to  protect  the 
happy  homes  of  its  people." 

An  effort  was  made,  during  the  legislative  session  of  1869, 
to  secure  a  new  site  for  a  regimental  armory  in  a  more 
central  location  ;  but  the  bill  for  that  purpose,  after  passing 
the  Senate,  failed  by  a  small  majority  in  the  Assembly. 

In  July  the  regiment  made  a  delightful  visit  to  Troy, 
Albany,  and  Saratoga,  and  were  received  everywhere  with 
hearty  welcome  both  by  the  State  authorities  and  private 
citizens.  At  the  inspection  in  October  there  were  present 
seven  hundred  and  eighteen. 

With  this  brief  summary  of  the  leading  events  in  the 
regimental  records  since  the  war,  we  now  turn  to  the  list 
of  members  who  served  in  the  army  or  navy  of  the  United 
States  during  the  war,  —  a  list  fitly  denominated  the  "  Roll 
of  Honor." 


FIRST    COMPANY   (A). 

1.    Captain   CHARLES   G.   BACON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  January  1,  1862,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  the  Thirty-Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  being  transferred  from 
the  Potomac  Light  Infantry  of  Georgetown,  D.  C. ;  was  promoted  to  be  First 
Lieutenant  and  Adjutant,  April  1,  18G2;  was  stationed,  in  April,  1862,  at 
Harper's  Ferry,  with  his  regiment,  and  there  appointed  A.  A.  A.  G.,  First 
Provisional  Brigade ;  was  captured  and  paroled  with  the  garrison,  September 
15,  1862  ;  was  mentioned  in  brigade  report  for  good  conduct  on  the  14th  Sep 
tember,  1862  ;  at  Annapolis  was  appointed  A.  A.  D.  C.,  on  the  staff  of  Briga 
dier-General  Tyler,  September  22, 1862  ;  promoted  to  be  Captain  (Thirty-Ninth 
New  York  Volunteers),  October  8, 1862,  and  served  with  his  regiment  till  June, 
1863,  when  he  was  authorized  to  raise  the  Thirty-Sixth  New  York  Light  Bat 
tery  ;  in  October,  1863,  was  made  Adjutant  of  the  Thirteenth  New  York  Heavy 
Artillery;  served  with  regiment  till  November  20,  1864,  when  he  was  ap 
pointed  Acting  Ordnance  Officer  for  District  East  Virginia,  on  staff  of  Briga 
dier-General  G.  F.  Shepley,  and  so  continued  till  April,  1865. 

2.    Captain    ROBERT    BAILEY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant  in  the  Sixth  Regiment 
New  York  Volunteers  ;  served  with  his  regiment  at  Fort  Pic-kens,  and  subse 
quently  in  Louisiana;  was  promoted  to  be  Captain,  Sixth  New  York  Volun 
teers  ;  was  mustered  out  with  his  regiment. 
25 


386  HISTOKY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

3.  Captain  AUGUSTUS  BELKNAP,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant  in  the Regi 
ment,  New  York  Volunteers  (First  Long  Island  Regiment) ;  promoted  to  be 
Captain ;  was  wounded,  and  honorably  discharged  for  disability  resulting  from 
wounds  received  in  the  service. 

4.  Midshipman  CHARLES  BELKNAP. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Midshipman  in  the  United  States 
Navy ;  served  throughout  the  war,  and  is  still  in  the  naval  service. 

-  5.  Ensign  CHARLES  WOLCOTT  CHAUNCEY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  15,  1861,  on  board  the  United 
States  steamer  Susquehannah,  Captain  John  S.  Chauncey,  United  States 
Navy,  as  captain's  clerk  ;  promoted,  July  1,  1861,  to  be  aid  to  the  command 
ing  officer;  served  on  the  coast  of  North  Carolina,  on  blockade  duty,  and 
took  part  in  the  naval  battles  at  Forts  Hatteras  and  Clark,  August  29  and 
30,  1861  ;  was  recommended  for  gallant  conduct  in  action  in  official  report 
to  the  Commander-in-Chief ;  was  detached  from  the  Susquehannah  in  Oc 
tober  by  reason  of  change  of  command. 

6.  Captain   W.    H.    COOPER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant  of  the Regiment, 

New  York  Volunteers ;  promoted  to  be  Captain  in  same  regiment ;  served  in 
the  Army  of  the  Potomac  in  Virginia,  and  was  mustered  out  with  regiment. 
Died  of  disease  contracted  in  the  service. 

7.   Lieutenant   G.   F.    COOKE. 

8.  Captain  W.  H.  CORSA. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as Lieutenant  in  one  of  the  "  Metro 
politan  "  regiments,  New  York  Volunteers ;  served  in  Louisiana ;  was  pro 
moted  to  be  Captain,  and  was  mustered  out  with  regiment  at  expiration  of  term 

of  service. 

9.  Surgeon  J.  C.  DALTON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Surgeon,  upon  staff  of  Brigadier-Gen 
eral  E.  L.  Viele,  commanding  a  brigade  at  Hilton  Head,  South  Carolina,  and 
served  in  the  Army  of  the  South  until  honorably  discharged. 

10.  Captain   B.  F.  DAVIS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant Regiment,  New 

York  Volunteers  ;  served  in  Louisiana,  and  took  part  in  the  various  battles  of 
the  Red  River  campaign  ;  was  appointed  Provost-Marshal  under  General 
Banks  in  this  campaign  ;  promoted  to  be  Captain. 

11.  Lieutenant-Colonel  W.   J.   DENSLOW,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant  in  the  Sixth  New 
York  Volunteers ;  served  at  Fort  Pickens  and  in  Louisiana ;  promoted  to  bo 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  387 

Captain,  and  served  on  the  staff  of  Brigadier-General  Dwight  at  Baton  Eouge  ; 
was  promoted  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel  of Regiment,  New  York  Volun 
teers. 

12.  Lieutenant  A.  D'ORVILLE. 

13.  Captain  H.  C.  ELLIS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Sergeant-Major  of  the  Sixty-Fifth 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  ;  served  with  the  Army  of  the  Potomac 
throughout  the  war,  and  took  part  with  it  in  many  important  battles ;  was 
promoted  to  be  Captain. 

14.  Lieutenant  R.   D.   EVANS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as Lieutenant  in  the  Fourth  Regi 
ment,  Excelsior  Brigade,  or  Second  Regiment  of  Fire  Zouaves,  New  York 
Volunteers  ;  served  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac ;  was  wounded,  and  honor 
ably  discharged  for  disability  resulting  from  wounds  received  in  the  service. 

15.  Captain  JAMES  FAIRGRIEVE. 

Entered  the  United   States  service  as Lieutenant  of  First  New  York 

Mounted  Rifles  ;  was  promoted  to  be  Captain  ;  served  in  Virginia. 

16.  Sergeant-Major  GEORGE  W.  FREELAND. 

17.  Brigadier-General  0.  H.  HART. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant  in  one  of  the  regiments 
of  General  Sickles's  (Excelsior)  brigade,  New  York  Volunteers;  promoted  to 
be  Assistant  Adjutant-General  of  the  brigade ;  served  with  distinction  in  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac,  and  in  the  armies  of  the  West ;  promoted  to  be  Colo 
nel  and  Brevet  Brigadier-General. 

18.  Captain  C.  E.  HUBERER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the  Sixth  Regiment,  New 
York  Volunteers  ;  served  at  Fort  Pickens  and  in  Louisiana,  and  was  mustered 
out  with  his  regiment  in  1863. 

19.  Lieutenant  T.  S.  KIRKLAND. 

20.  Captain  GEORGE  LE  FORT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June,  1861,  as  Adjutant  of  the  Fourth 
Regiment,  Excelsior  Brigade  (Second  Fii-e  Zouaves),  New  York  Volunteers. 
Served  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  Hooker's  division,  and  was  made  aide- 
de-camp  to  General  Sickles,  and  subsequently  Captain  of  his  company  (D) ; 
was  engaged  in  all  the  various  battles  of  the  Peninsula,  with  his  brigade  and 
division  ;  in  the  battles  under  Pope,  at  Fredcricksburg,  at  Chancellorsville,  and 
at  Gettysburg,  acting  at  the  latter  as  Inspector-General  on  the  staff  of  Colonel 
W.  R.  Brewster,  commanding  the  Second  Brigade,  Second  Division,  Third 
Army  Corps.  At  Gettysburg  he  was  severely  wounded,  but  he  sufficiently 
recovered  to  take  part  in  the  affair  at  Wapping  Heights,  where  his  conspicuous 


388  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

gallantry,  shown  on  every  field  before,  caused  him-  to  be  honorably  mentioned 
in  official  reports.  He  was  engaged  again  in  the  Wilderness,  and  at  Spottsyl- 
vania,  and  was  killed  May  20,  1864.  His  zeal,  fidelity,  and  energy  as  a  dis 
ciplinarian  won  him  the  highest  praises  of  his  superior  officers.  He  was  a 
participant  in  nearly  forty  larger  or  lesser  engagements  during  his  three  years 
of  active  service.  He  was  repeatedly  offered  promotion  in  other  regiments, 
but  preferred  remaining  simple  Captain  in  the  Fourth  Excelsior.  His  patriot 
ism  was  of  the  purest  type,  and  he  deserves  a  high  place  among  his  country's 
martyrs. 

21.  Adjutant  C.  H.  LYONS. 

Entered  the  United   States  service  as  Lieutenant  in  the Regiment, 

New  York  Volunteers.     Was  made  Adjutant  in  the Regiment  of  New 

York  Cavalry.  Was  wounded,  and  honorably  discharged  for  disability,  re 
sulting  from  wounds  received  in  the  service. 

22.  Major  FREDERICK  J.  MEARS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861,  as  Lieutenant  in  the  In 
fantry  (Regular  Army).  Was  detailed  to  instruct  volunteer  officers  at  Arsenal, 
Washington.  Appointed  in  1861  Lieutenant-Colonel  of  Colonel  Berdan's 
regiment  of  sharpshooters.  Joined  his  own  regiment  in  Oregon.  Promoted 
to  be  Captain,  and  subsequently  to  be  Major. 

Is  now  on  duty  with  his  regiment. 

23.  Captain  F.  E.  MC!LVAINE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the  Nineteenth  Infantry 
(Regular  Army). 

24.  Captain  A.  B.  McGowAN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  the  Regular  Army,  and  was  stationed 
on  the  Pacific  Coast.  Is  still  in  the  regular  service. 

25.  Sergeant-Major  J.  MORROW. 

26.  Lieutenant  W.  A.  NICHOLS. 

27.  Lieutenant  R.  H.  PLASS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant  in  the Regiment  of 

New  York  Cavalry. 

28.  Lieutenant  C.  L.  REYNOLDS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant  in  the  Fourth  Regiment, 
Excelsior  Brigade  (Second  Fire  Zouaves),  New  York  Volunteers. 

29.  Captain  GEORGE  W.  RING. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the Regiment  of  Mi 
chigan  Volunteers. 

30.  Captain  THEODORE  RUSSELL. 
Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the Regiment  of  New 


ROLL   OF  HONOR.  389 

York  Volunteers,  Colonel  Cone  commanding.  Served  in  the  Army  of  the  Po 
tomac,  in  its  advance  up  the  Peninsula,  and  was  killed  in  battle  at  Fair 
Oaks,  June,  1862. 

31.  Lieutenant  J.  W.  SIBELL. 

32.  Major  F.  D.  SLOCOMB. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant  of  the  Forty-Third 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be  Captain  in  Ull- 
man's  Corps  d'Afrique,  and  served  in  Louisiana.  Was  promoted  to  be  Major. 

33.  Lieutenant  BENEKE  C.  STOUT. 

34.  Lieutenant-Colonel  CHABLES  N.  SWIFT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  18,  1862,  as  Private  in  Company 
F,  Fifth  New  York  Volunteers  (Duryee's  Zouaves).  Was  transferred,  May 
5,  1863,  to  Company  C,  One  Hundred  and  Forty-Sixth  New  York  Volunteers, 
at  the  battle  of  Chancellorsville.  Was  commissioned  Captain,  February  25, 
1864  (after  passing  as  Captain  of  first  class,  at  an  examination  by  General 
Casey's  Board),  of  Company  A,  Thirtieth  Regiment  United  States  Cavalry 
Troops.  Was  brevetted  Major,  March  13,  1865,  Lieutenant-Colonel  March  13, 
1865,  "  for  gallant  and  meritorious  service  during  the  war/' 

Served  in  Maryland,  Virginia,  and  North  Carolina,  in  the  Fifth,  Eighth, 
Ninth,  Tenth,  Twenty-Third,  and  Twenty-Fifth  Corps.  Was  engaged  in 
the  battles  of  second  Bull  Run,  Wilderness,  Antietam,  Fredericksburg,  Chan 
cellorsville,  Gettysburg,  Germania  Ford,  Spottsylvania,  Old  Church,  Peters 
burg,  and  Cox's  Landing.  Was  in  all  of  the  campaigns  of  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac,  from  the  second  Bull  Run  to  the  mine  explosion,  except  during 
the  interval  after  Gettysburg,  till  Grant  took  command.  Was  with  Sherman 
in  the  march  from  Wilmington  to  Raleigh. 

He  was  taken  prisoner  at  Chancellorsville,  and  escaped  by  eluding  the 
guard,  and  swimming  the  Potomac.  Being  detailed  to  recruit  colored  troops 
in  Virginia  and  Maryland,  he  enlisted,  unaided  and  alone,  five  hundred  men 
in  three  months.  He  superintended  the  laying  of  a  part  of  the  abattis  in 
front  of  the  Ninth  Corps  at  Petersburg,  under  a  galling  fire,  in  which  he  lost 
thirty  men.  He  was  brought  down  by  typhoid  fever,  in  front  of  Petersburg, 
June  10,  1864,  and  rejoined  his  regiment  in  the  spring  of  1865.  He  had  charge 
of  a  convalescent  camp  at  Wilmington,  N.  C.,  numbering  two  thousand  five 
hundred  men.  He  had  not  attained  the  age  of  twenty-one  when  discharged, 
in  the  spring  of  1865. 

35.  Lieutenant  CHARLES  J.  THERIOTT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  16,  1861,  at,  San  Francisco,  as 
Commissary-Sergeant,  First  California  Volunteers.  Was  promoted,  June  4, 
1862,  to  be  Second  Lieutenant,  and  June  1,  1864,  to  be  First  Lieutenant. 
Served  in  Arizona,  New  Mexico,  under  Generals  Carleton  and  West,  and  in 
Missouri.  AJso  held  positions  of  A.  A.  Q.  M.,  A.  A.  C.  S.,  A.  A.  D.  C. 


390  HISTOEY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Was  engaged  in  skirmishes  with  the  Apache  and  Navajo  Indians.  Resigned 
November,  1864.  Was  recommended  by  General  Carleton  as  Captain  and 
Commissary-Sergeant  in  the  army. 

36.  Lieutenant  E.  C.  TIFFANY. 

37.  Surgeon  EUSTACE  TRENOR. 
Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Surgeon  in  the  navy. 

38.  Surgeon  JOHN  TRENOR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Surgeon  in  the Regiment  of  New 

York  Cavalry.  Served  in  the  Department  of  the  South  and  South  Carolina. 
Died  of  disease  contracted  in  the  service  while  in  the  line  of  duty. 

39.  Captain  J.  J.  TRENOR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant  in  the Regiment 

of  New  York  Volunteers,  Colonel  Cone  commanding.  Served  in  the  Army  of 
the  Potomac,  in  front  of  Yorktown,  and  on  the  march  up  the  Peninsula,  in 
1862.  Was  promoted  to  be  Captain.  Was  killed  in  front  of  his  company 
while  leading  it  into  action,  at  Fair  Oaks,  1862. 

40.  Lieutenant  S.  C.  THWAITE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as- Lieutenant  in  the  Sixty-Second  Regi 
ment  of  New  York  Volunteers  (Anderson  Zouaves).  Was  promoted  to  be 
Adjutant  of  the  regiment.  Served  with  his  regiment  in  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac. 

41.  Lieutenant  A.  B.  VILLEPLAITE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  a  Lieutenant  in  one  of  the  regiments 
of  Corcoran's  Legion,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  Virginia  with  his 
regiment. 

42.  Lieutenant  M.  P.  WHITLOCK. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as in  the  navy. 

43.  Lieutenant  W.  P.  WHEELER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant  in  the Regiment  of 

New  Jersey  Volunteers. 

SECOND    COMPANY    (B). 
1.  Captain  HENRY  H.  AJ.DEN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Second  Lieutenant  in  the  Forty-Second 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Tammany  Regiment).  Was  promoted  to 
be  First  Lieutenant;  and  to  be  Captain,  June,  1861.  His  company  was  among 
the  first  to  cross  the  Potomac  at  Ball's  Bluff,  Va. ;  and  he  was  killed  at  the 
battle  at  that  place,  October  16,  1861,  while  gallantly  leading  his  command. 
He  was  buried  upon  the  field,  but  his  remains  were  recovered  under  a  flag  of 
truce,  and  his  funeral  was  attended  in  New  York  at  the  armory  of  the  Seventh 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  391 

Regiment,  the  Second  Company  escorting  the  remains  till  their  departure  for 
the  home  of  his  family  in  Massachusetts. 

2.  Colonel  WILLIAM  H.  ALLEN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Colonel  of  the  ".First  Regiment,  New  York 
Volunteers,  May  8,  1861.  Served  at  Fortress  Monroe  under  General  Butler, 
and  was  at  the  battle  of  Big  Bethel.  Was  cashiered  and  dismissed  from  the 
service  September  10, 1861,  the  principal  charge  against  him  being  the  burning, 
without  orders,  of  a  field  of  wheat  owned  by  Major  Thompson  of  the  Rebel  Army. 
In  June,  1862,  was  authorized,  by  a  special  order  of  President  Lincoln,  to  raise  a 
regiment,  the  One  Hundi-ed  and  Forty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers, 
which  was  mustered  into  the  United  States  service  on  the  1 1th  September,  1862. 
Commanded  this  regiment  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  until  November,  1862. 
While  at  Washington,  by  order  of  the  Secretary  of  War,  to  revise  pay-rolls,  a 
new  Colonel  was  commissioned  by  Governor  Morgan  and  detailed  to  the  com 
mand  of  the  One  Hundred  and  Forty-Fifth  Regiment.  Served  as  Aid  to 
General  Wool  during  the  riots  in  New  York  in  1863. 

3.  Captain  RICHARD  ALLISON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  30,  1862,  as  Captain  of  Com- 
panv  I,  One  Hundred  and  Twenty-Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 
Served  at  Washington,  under  Heintzelman,  from  September  12,  1862,  to  April 
18,  1863 ;  at  Suffolk  (Va.),  under  Peck,  from  April  18  to  May  5,  1863,  during 
the  siege  of  Suffolk;  in  Southeastern  Virginia,  under  Dix  and  Keyes,  to  July 
10th;  in  the  Eleventh  Corps,  until  August  7th;  in  the  Department  of  the 
South,  under  Gillmore  and  Foster,  from  August  13,  1863,  to  July  1,  1865. 
Was  present  at  a  skirmish  at  Diascund  Bridge  (June  11,  1863) ;  a  severe  skir 
mish  at  Baltimore  Cross-Roads  (June  30,  1863) ;  at  the  attack  on  Forts  John 
son  and  Simpkins,  by  small  boats  (July  2,  1864);  and  in  many  raids  and 
reconnoissanc.es  around  Charleston  Harbor.  Was  in  command  of  the  "  Boat 
Infantry  "  at  Morris  Island,  composed  of  Companies  D,  E,  I,  and  K,  of  his 
regiment,  his  duty  being  to  patrol  and  picket  the  water  between  Morris  and 
James  Islands  and  Charleston  Harbor.  August  2,  1864,  he  commanded  the 
reconnoissance  which  made  a  complete  circuit  of  Fort  Sumter,  with  three  small 
row-boats.  Though  often  attempted,  this  is  the  only  time  the  feat  was  ever 
accomplished.  General  Foster,  in  an  official  letter,  forwarded  to  Captain 
Allison  by  the  district  commander,  General  Schimmelpfening,  thanked  "  the 
officers  and  men  who  made  this  reconnoissance  of  Fort  Sumter,"  and  expressed 
himself  as  "  much  pleased  with  their  energy  in  the  enterprise." 

September  7,  1864,  was  detailed  as  A.  A.  Inspector-General  of  the  depart 
ment.  Took  part  in  the  movement  from  Beaufort  against  the  Savannah  and 
Charleston  Railroad,  in  November,  in  co-operation  with  Sherman's  march 
through  Georgia.  Was  engaged  severely  at  Grahamsville  (November  30th), 
Devaux  Neck  (December  6th),  and  frequently  again  (7th,  9th,  and  29th  De 
cember)  during  the  movement,  his  regiment  losing  very  heavily.  Was  Provost- 


392  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Marshal  of  the  city  of  Charleston  from  Mai'ch  28,  1865,  to  July  1,  1865,  when 
he  was  mustered  out  of  service  with  his  regiment. 

4.  Major  CHARLES  APPLEBY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  March,  1863,  as  First  Lieutenant  in  Ull- 
man's  brigade  (colored  troops).  Was  promoted,  January,  1864,  to  be  Captain 
in  the  Eightieth  United  States  Colored  Troops.  While  Lieutenant,  he  took 
command  of  one  hundred  men  from  the  brigade,  on  an  expedition  to  Jackson, 
La.,  and  had  a  skirmish  with  Logan's  command.  Took  an  active  part,  with 
his  regiment,  in  the  siege  and  capture  of  Port  Hudson,  June,  1863.  Was 
engaged  in  picket  and  provost  duty  in  Louisiana  and  Texas  through  1863, 
1864,  and  1865.  Was  detailed  as  Judge  Advocate  by  General  Andrews  at  Port 
Hudson,  March  16,  1864.  At  Marshall  (Texas)  he  was  Provost-Marshal. 

He  was  wounded  in  the  arm,  in  the  skirmish  near  Jackson.  He  was  bre- 
vetted  Major,  May  21,  1866,  and  still  remains  in  the  United  States  service. 

5.  Hospital  Steward  EVERT  S.  BEDFORD. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  July,  1861,  as  Hospital  Steward  of  the 
Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States  Chasseurs). 
Served  in  the  regiment  with  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  through  the  Peninsular 
campaign,  and  afterwards  in  Northern  Virginia  and  Maryland.  Was  dis 
charged  for  disability  in  1863. 

6.  Captain  EDWARD  BERNARD. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  4,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  in  the 
Eleventh  New  York  Volunteers  (Ellsworth's  Zouaves),  and  took  part  in  the 
battle  of  Bull  Run,  July,  1861.  October  1,  1861,  resigned  to  be  commissioned 
as  Captain  in  the  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States 
Chasseurs).  Took  part,  with  his  regiment,  in  the  siege  of  Yorktown,  and  the 
battles  of  Williamsburg,  Fair  Oaks,  Seven  Pines,  and  the  Seven  Days'  Bat 
tles.  In  the  last  of  these,  Malvern  Hill,  he  was  wounded,  late  in  the  after 
noon  of  July  1,  1862,  by  a  gunshot  wound  in  the  left  leg,  the  bullet  passing 
through  the  leg  half  an  inch  below  the  knee-joint  and  taking  out  both  bones. 
Being  permanently  disabled,  he  resigned,  December,  1862,  and  the  resignation 
was  accepted  in  March,  1863.  Was  mentioned  in  official  orders. 

7.  Lieutenant-Colonel  GEORGE  A.  BERNARD. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  June,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  of  the 
Sixty-Fifth  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States  Chasseurs).  Was  promoted 
to  be  Captain,  December,  1861.  Was  appointed  Aide-de-Camp  upon  the  staff 
of  General  H.  D.  Terry,  commanding  the  Third  Division,  Sixth  Corps,  and 
was  afterwards  transferred  to  the  staff  of  General  D.  A.  Russell,  remaining 
with  that  officer  till  his  death  at  Winchester.  Was  retained  on  the  stuff'  by 
General  Frank  Wheaton,  who  took  command  of  the  division  after  Russell's 
death,  and  so  remained  till  the  end  of  the  war. 

He  was  engaged  in  the  various  battles  of  the  Peninsular  campaign,  at  the 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  393 

second  Bull  Run,  Antietam,  Fredericksburg  under  Burnside  and  Fredericks- 
burg  under  Hooker,  Gettysburg,  the  Wilderness,  Spottsylvania,  Cold  Harbor, 
the  battles  before  Petersburg,  and  nearly  all  the  battles  of  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac.  He  was  with  the  Sixth  Corps  in  the  Valley  under  Sheridan,  in  all 
its  battles  there.  He  was  present  at  the  capture  of  General  Lee,  and,  with  his 
corps,  was  stationed  at  Danville  until  July,  1865.  Was  mustered  out  with 
his  regiment,  August  18,  1865. 

He  was  brevetted  Major,  June  10,  1864,  for  gallant  and  meritorious  conduct 
at  Cold  Harbor.  April  2,  1865,  he  was  brevetted  Lieutenant-Colonel  upon 
the  recommendation  of  General  Frank  Wheaton. 

8.  Captain  J.  F.  BISBEE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  31,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant,  Com 
pany  B,  Sixty-Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Anderson  Zouaves). 
Was  promoted  to  be  Captain,  July  31,  1862.  Took  part  in  the  battles  at 
Yorktown,  Williamsburg,  Seven  Pines,  Fair  Oaks,  Malvern  Hill,  Turkey 
Bend,  second  Bull  Run,  Antietam,  and  first  Fredericksburg;  and  in  skir 
mishes  at  Warwick  Court-House,  Bottom's  Bridge,  Golding  Farm,  and  Wil- 
liamsport.  In  all  these  engagements  he  had  command  of  his  company.  Re 
signed,  March  27,  1868,  from  disease  contracted  in  the  service. 

9.  Lieutenant  RICHARD  R.  BROWNER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  April,  1861,  as  First  Sergeant  in  Fifth 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Duryee's  Zouaves).  Commissioned  Second 
Lieutenant  in  May,  1861,  and  First  Lieutenant,  August  16,  1861,  and  ap 
pointed  Adjutant  in  January,  1862.  Served  at  Fortress  Monroe,  Fort  Federal 
Hill,  and  in  the  Peninsular  campaign.  Resigned  in  June,  1862. 

10.  Brigadier-General  WILLIAM  HENRY  BROWNE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  24,  1861,  as  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Thirty-First  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  July  6th  to  be  Colonel  of 
the  Thirty-Sixth  New  York  Volunteers.  Brevetted  Brigadier-General,  as  of 
March  13,  1865,  "  for  gallant  and  meritorious  services  during  the  war."  Com 
manded  his  regiment  at  Blackburn  Ford  and  Bull  Run,  at  West  Point,  Gold- 
ing's  Farm,  and  through  all  the  Seven  Days'  battles.  At  Antietam  he  com 
manded  a  mixed  brigade  at  the  fords.  At  Fredericksburg  and  at  Marye's 
Heights  he  commanded  a  brigade,  composed  of  the  Seventh,  Tenth,  and 
Thirty-Seventh  Massachusetts,  Thirty-Sixth  New  York,  and  Second  Rhode 
Island.  At  Salem  Heights,  May  3,  1863,  he  was  shot  through  the  left  knee 
by  a  minie  bullet,  which  shattered  the  thigh-bone,  and  was  carried  from  the 
field.  General  Sedgwick  especially  mentions  him  in  his  official  report  of  this 
battle  as  among  those  whose  "  skill  and  gallantry  displayed  in  the  manage 
ment  of  their  respective  brigades  deserves  the  special  notice  of  the  commanding 
general."  Before  he  had  recovered  from  his  wound  his  regiment  had,  July 
15,  1863,  been  mustered  out  of  service. 

Not  long  after  he  was  appointed  Colonel  of  the  Veteran  Reserve  Corps, 


394  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

passing  the  highest  examination  among  twenty-four  candidates.  He  was 
made  member  of  examining  boards,  and  served  in  various  other  capacities, 
finally  being  assigned  to  the  command  of  the  Second  Brigade,  Veteran  Re 
serve  Corps,  consisting  of  six  regiments,  stationed  in  Virginia.  In  August, 
1864,  he  was  made  Provost-Marshal-General  and  Chief  Mustering  and  Dis 
bursing  Officer  and  Superintendent  of  Recruiting  for  Maryland  and  Dela 
ware,  and  so  continued  until  July,  1866,  when  he  was  honorably  mustered  out. 
Besides  the  regular  actions  already  noted,  he  was  engaged  in  many  skir 
mishes.  General  Scott  wrote  of  him  as  "  my  gallant  brother-soldier  in  the  cam 
paign  of  Mexico."  Major-Generals  Hooker,  Franklin,  Newton,  and  Slocum 
strongly  recommended  him  for  promotion.  General  Sedgwick  wrote  :  "I  add 
my  testimony  to,  and  express  my  admiration  for,  the  ability  as  an  officer,  the 
high  attainments,  and  the  soldierly  qualities  which  have  marked  your  career 

from  your  entrance  into  the  service Of  your  gallantry  and  undaunted 

bravery  on  the  occasion  of  the  storming  of  the  Heights  of  Fredcricksburg, 
while  at  the  head  of  your  brigade,  and  subsequently  on  the  hotly  contested 
field  of  Salem  Heights,  where  you  received  your  agonizing  wound,  I  can 
not  speak  with  too  much  praise.  The  bravery  of  the  soldier,  the  skill  of  the 
officer,  and  the  courage  of  the  gentleman  were  so  happily  blended,  that  your 
conduct  on  that  day  afforded  a  noble  example,  the  memory  of  which  must 
long  live  in  the  hearts  of  all  your  friends  and  comrades." 

11.  Captain  JOHN  C.  BUOOMFIELD. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  Sixth  Regiment,  New 
York  Volunteers,  in  December,  1861,  and  joined  his  regiment  at  Fort  Pick- 
ens,  January  18,  1862.  After  a  few  months'  service  at  Fort  Pickens  and 
vicinity,  resigned  his  commission. 

12.  Lieutenant  A.  MARTIN  BUHTIS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  31,  1861,  as  1st  Lieutenant  of 
Company  K,  Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  State  Militia,  or  Eighty-Third  Regi 
ment,  New  York  Volunteers;  was  made  Quartermaster,  June  21,  1&G2,  and 
so  remained  till  mustered  out.  Was  in  Abercrombie's  brigade,  Banks's  corps, 
during  1861  and  1862,  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley,  and,  from  March,  1862,  in 
Hartsuff  s  brigade,  McDowell's  corps.  Took  part  in  all  the  campaigns  of  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac,  after  McDowell  joined  Pope,  under  McClellan,  Burn- 
side,  Hooker,  and  Meade,  till  he  was  mustered  out  with  his  regiment,  June 
8,  1864. 

13.  Lieutenant-Colonel  WILLIAM -CHALMERS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the  One  Hundred  and  Thirty- 
Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Took  part  in  the  battle  of  Bull 
Run,  and  was  mentioned  with  praise  in  brigade  reports.  Went  through  the 
whole  Peninsular  campaign,  taking  part  in  the  battle  at  West  Point  and  the 
Seven  Days'  Battles.  Resigned  commission  at  Harrison's  Landing,  August 
8,  1862,  on  account  of  disease  contracted  in  the  service.  Commissioned  Lieu- 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  395 

tenant-Colonel  of  Eighty-Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Ninth  Regi 
ment,  New  York  State  Militia),  October  13,  1863.  Crossed  the  Rapidan  with 
General  Meade,  and  was  at  the  battle  of  Mine  Run.  Commanded  his  regi 
ment  at  the  battle  of  the  Wilderness  nnd  in  subsequent  actions.  Mustered  out 
with  his  regiment  in  July,  1864. 

14.  Lieutenant  WILLIAM  0.  CHAPMAN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  February,  1862,  as  a  private  in  the 
Ninety-Fifth  New  York  Volunteers.  Soon  after  was  promoted  to  be  Sergeant 
and  detailed  as  Commissary  Sergeant.  Was  made  Second  Lieutenant,  June 
13, 1862,  and  First  Lieutenant  and  Quartermaster,  January  27,  1863.  Served 
with  his  regiment,  throughout  its  three  years  of  service  in  Virginia,  in  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac,  in  the  First  Division  of  the  First  Corps,  McDowell's, 
(afterwards  Reynolds's,)  and  then  in  the  Third  (Wadsworth's)  Division  of 
Warren's  Fifth  Corps.  Served  as  Regimental  Quartermaster  (and  from  time 
to  time  as  Brigade  Commissary  and  Quartermaster)  from  August  12,  1862, 
till  the  muster  out  of  the  regiment  on  March  6,  1865,  by  reason  of  expira 
tion  of  service. 

15.  Major  JOSEPH  J.  COMSTOCK,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Second  Lieutenant,  Third  Rhode  Isl 
and  Volunteers,  in  July,  1861,  First  Lieutenant  and  Adjutant,  August  18, 

1861.  Went  with  General  Sherman's  expedition  to  Port  Royal,  South  Caro 
lina,  in   1861,  and  was  commissioned  Captain  of  ^artillery,  in  March,  1862. 
Was  at  the  battle  of  James  Island,  and  with  General  Mitchell  at  the  engage 
ment  on  the  Charleston  and  Savannah  Railroad,  in  October,  1862.     Com 
manded  a  mortar  battery  in  the  attack  on  Morris  Island,  in  July,  1863,  and 
a  battery  of  one-hundred-pound  Parrott  guns  at  the  capture  of  Forts  Gregg 
and  Wagner.     Commissioned  as  Major  of  the  Eleventh  United   States   Col 
ored  Heavy  Artillery  in  November,  1863,  and  was  placed  in  command  of  Fort 
Esperanza,   Texas.     Assigned  to   the   command   of  Forts   Jackson  and   St. 
Philip,  near  New  Orleans,  in   1864,  and  Camp  Parapet,  on  the  Mississippi 
River,  in  1865.     Resigned  in  September,  1865. 

16.  Captain  JAMES  C.  COOLEY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Sergeant  in  Company  D, 
One  Hundred  and  Thirty-Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  August  15, 

1862.  Commissioned  Second  Lieutenant,  August  29, 1862  ;  First  Lieutenant, 
December  3,  1862  ;  Captain,  May  28,  1864.     Was  in  the  Banks  Expedition 
to  New  Orleans,  in  both  campaigns  against  Port  Hudson,  in  the  Red  River 
campaign,  in  the  expedition  to  Sabine  Pass,  and  the  second  expedition  to 
Western  Louisiana,  serving  as  Aide-de-Camp  to  General  Paine,  and   as  Act 
ing  Assistant  Adjutant-General  to  General  Emory.     He  took  part  in  the  en 
gagements  at  Bisland  and  Vermilion  Bayou.     In  July,  1864,  accompanied 
General  Emory,  commanding  Nineteenth   Army   Corps,    to  the  Shenandoah 
Valley,  and  was  in  all  the  battles  under  General  Sheridan,  especially.  Win 
chester,  Fisher's  Hill,  and  Cedar  Creek.     In  February,  1865,  served  as  Aide- 


396  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

de-Camp  to  General  Merritt,  in  the  great  cavalry  raid  of  General  Sheridan  to 
the  James  River  and  Petersburg.  Was  with  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  until 
the  surrender  of  General  Lee.  In  May,  1865,  commissioned  Second  Lieu 
tenant  in  the  Fifth  Cavalry  (Regular  Army),  and  brevetted  First  Lieutenant 
and  Captain,  "  for  gallant  and  meritorious  services  during  the  war."  Was  pro 
moted  to  be  First  Lieutenant,  Fifth  Cavalry,  July  28,  1866. 

17.  Lieutenant-Colonel  ROBERT  COTTIER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant-Colonel  of  One  Hundred 
and  Sixteenth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  September  5,  1862.  Was 
in  the  Banks  Expedition  to  New  Orleans.  Commanded  his  regiment  in 
the  first  advance  and  assault  on  Port  Hudson,  and  in  the  engagement  at  Plain 
Store,  Louisiana.  His  regiment  losfr,  in  the  assault  at  Port  Hudson,  nearly 
half  its  men.  Resigned  May  29,  1863. 

18.  Major-General  ABRAM  DURYEE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  9,  1861,  as  Colonel  of  the  Fifth 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  (Duryee's  Zouaves).  Was  promoted  to  be 
Brigadier-General,  August  31,  1861,  and  Major-General  by  brevet,  March  13, 
1865.  Was  at  the  battle  of  Big  Bethel,  Virginia.  Commanded  the  district 
of  Baltimore,  Maryland,  and  erected  Fort  Federal  Hill.  Commanded  a  bri 
gade  under  General  McDowell,  in  Northern  and  Central  Virginia,  in  the  spring 
of  1862;  and  served  under  General  Pope,  being  actively  engaged  in  the  battles 
at  Cedar  Mountain,  Rappahannock  Station,  Thoroughfare  Gap,  Groveton, 
Bull  Run,  Chantilly,  Soutli  Mountain,  and  Antietam.  At  Antietam  he  was 
slightly  wounded,  —  the  third  wound  he  had  received  in  the  service.  During 
the  temporary  absence  of  General  Duryee,  on  leave,  the  command  of  the 
division  was  conferred  on  an  officer  of  inferior  rank.  General  Duryee  de 
manded  his  rank  and  command,  on  the  ground  that  he  was  identified  with  the 
division  from  its  organization,  and  was  its  senior  general  officer,  as  well  as  for 
his  past  services ;  but  the  command  was  withheld  from  him,  without  the  assign 
ment  of  cause,  whereupon,  in  1863,  General  Duryee  resigned. 

General  Pope,  in  his  official  report,  says  :  "  General  Duryee  commanded  his 
brigade  in  the  various  operations  of  this  campaign  with  ability  and  zeal." 
General  McDowell  refers  to  the  "  gallantry  of  Generals  Duryee  and  Tower  at 
Thoroughfare  Gap,  and  the  battle  of  the  30th,  in  which  the  former  was 
slightly  and  the  latter  severely  wounded."  General  Ricketts,  in  his  official 
report  of  second  Bull  Run,  says :  "  General  Duryee's  brigade  advanced  into 
the  woods,  driving  the  enemy  along  the  old  railroad  excavation,  until  directly 
under  their  guns.  While  occupying  this  ground,  General  Duryee  was  sub 
jected  to  a  heavy  fire  of  artillery  and  infantry,  in  which  he  received  a  slight 
wound  and  a  severe  contusion  from  a  shell,  but  remained  at  his  post  animat 
ing  his  men,  who  behaved  admirably. 

"  ....  In  recapitulating  the  services  of  brigade  commanders,  I  would 
make  particular  mention  of  Brigadier-General  Duryee  for  his  noble  conduct 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  397 

at  Thoroughfare  Gap,  and  his  indomitable  courage  displayed  at  Bull  Run, 
while  holding  a  trying  position."  General  Meade's  report  of  the  battle  of 
South  Mountain  speaks  highly  of  the  promptness  of  General  Duryee  in  as 
cending  the  mountain  in  support  of  the  Pennsylvania  Reserves,  which  re 
sulted  in  the  defeat  of  the  enemy.  General  Rickett's  report  of  Antietam 
says  :  "  I  commend  the  general  good  conduct  of  the  division,  and  would  men 
tion,  particularly,  Brigadier-General  Duryee,  Colonels  Coulter  and  Lyle,  and 
Captains  Matthews  and  Thompson  of  the  artillery.  Indeed,  both  officers  and 
men  displayed  courage  under  a  severe  fire."  Governor  Fenton,  in  forwarding 
the  brevet  of  Major-General,  "  conferred,"  as  he  said,  "  by  the  President,  in 
recognition  of  your  faithful  and  distinguished  services  in  the  late  war,"  added  : 
"  In  behalf  of  the  State,  allow  me  to  thank  you  for  the  gallantry  and  devotion 
which  induced  this  conspicuous  mention  by  the  general  government." 

19.  Lieutenant-Colonel  ALEXANDER  DOUGLAS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  August,  1862,  as  Captain  in  the  Twenty- 
Second  Regiment,  New  Jersey  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be  Lieutenant- 
Colonel,  September  22,  1862.  Served  with  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  in 
the  winter  of  1862-63,  at  Fredericksburg  and  Aquia  Creek.  Commanded  his 
regiment  from  its  organization  until  his  resignation  in  March,  1863. 

20.  Paymaster  WILLIAM  LEE  DARLING. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  December  18,  1861,  under  an  appoint-- 
ment  as  Acting  Assistant  Paymaster.  Was  commissioned  as  an  Assistant 
Paymaster  in  the  Regular  Navy,  June  30,  1864,  and  promoted  to  be  Paymas 
ter,  May  4,  1866.  He  was  in  the  South  Atlantic  Squadron,  under  Dupont ;  in 
the'West  Gulf  Squadron,  under  Farragut ;  and  in  the  North  Atlantic  Squad 
ron,  under  Porter.  He  took  part  in  several  engagements  on  the  Red  and 
Mississippi  Rivers,  including  the  battle  ending  in  the  capture  of  the  ram 
Queen  of  the  West,  on  Grand  Lake,  Louisiana,  the  attack  on  Sabine  Pass, 
Texas,  and  both  naval  engagements  at  Fort  Fisher.  At  Fort  Fisher  he 
was  mentioned  by  the  commanding  officer  in  his  report  to  the  Secretary  of 
the  Navy.  He  was  attached,  after  the  war,  to  the  United  States  practice 
ship  Macedonian,  at  the  Naval  Academy,  Annapolis. 

21.  Captain  JAMES  J.  DE  BARRY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  24,  1862,  as  Captain  of 
Company  D,  One  Hundred  and  Seventieth  New  York  Volunteers,  and  served 
in  Corcoran's  brigade,  Hancock's  corps.  Served  in  Virginia,  and  took  part 
in  the  engagements  at  Suffolk,  and  those  on  the  Blackwater  and  Nansemond 
Rivers  in  April  and  May,  1863.  Served  throughout  Grant's  Virginia  cam 
paign,  in  the  Second  Corps,  taking  part  particularly  in  the  battles  of  the 
Wilderness,  May  5  and  6,  1864  ;  Spottsylvania,  May  18th  ;  North  Anna,  May 
24th  and  26th;  Cold  Harbor,  June  2d  and  10th;  Petersburg,  June  16th,  17th, 
18th,  22d,  and  23d;  Deep  Bottom,  July  25th  and  August  15th;  Ream's 
Station,  August  25th.  He  was  present  at  Lee's  siirrendcr,  and  was  mustered 


398  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

out,  with  his  regiment,  July  15,  1865.  He  was  three  times  wounded,  once 
while  skirmishing,  May  1,  1863;  again  at  Blackwater  River;  again  at  Deep 
Bottom. 

22.  Lieutenant  LEWIS  G.  DUDLEY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  July,  1861,  as  First  Sergeant  in 
Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States  Chasseurs).  Com 
missioned  Second  Lieutenant  in  January,  1862.  Was  in  the  battles  of  the 
Peninsular  campaign,  in  Northern  Virginia,  and  at  South  Mountain  and 
Antietam  in  1862,  and  in  the  battle  at  Fredericksburg  under  General  Burn- 
side.  Resigned  in  February,  1863.  Commissioned  Second  Lieutenant  in 
First  Regiment  Veteran  Cavalry,  New  York  Volunteers,  October  17,  1863, 
and  served  until  the  end  of  the  war  under  General  Sheridan,  in  the  Valley  of 
the  Shenandoah,  and  in  the  great  raid  to  the  James  River  and  Petersburg. 

23.  Lieutenant  HENRY  B.  DYER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  20,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  of  the 
Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States  Chasseurs). 
Served  with  his  regiment  at  Washington,  D.  C.,  during  the  winter  of  1861  -  62, 
and  resigned  his  commission  in  the  following  spring  on  account  of  sickness. 

24.  Captain  WILLIAM  EDWARDS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  3,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant 
Sixth  Regiment,  New  York  Cavalry.  Was  promoted  to  be  Captain,  October 
5,  1862.  Served  in  Northern  Virginia,  and  was  mustered  out  with  his  regi 
ment  at  the  expiration  of  its  term  of  service. 

25.  Captain  CHARLES  EMERSON.  « 
Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Second  Lieutenant  One  Hundred  and 

Seventy-Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  May  28,  1862;  First  Lieu 
tenant  One  Hundred  and  Sixty-Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers, 
July  2,  1864;  Captain,  February  10,  1865;  honorably  discharged  May '21, 
1865.  Served,  in  1863,  in  Department  of  the  Gulf,  as  Acting  Assistant 
Adjutant-General  on  the  staff  of  General  Banks.  Was  in  the  Teche  cam 
paign,  and  at  the  siege  of  Port  Hudson  in  1863.  In  July,  1864,  joined  his 
regiment  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley,  and  served  through  the  whole  cam 
paign  under  General  Sheridan.  In  October,  1864,  assigned  to  duty  as  Acting 
Assistant  Adjutant-General  upon  the  staff  of  General  Emory,  and  in  April, 
1865,  as  Provost-Marshal  on  the  staff  of  General  D  wight. 

26.  Colonel  NOAH  L.  FARNHAM. 

.  Entered  the  United  States  service  in  May,  1861,  as  Lieutenant-Colonel  of 
Eleventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Fire  Zouaves).  Was  at  the  cap 
ture  of  Alexandria,  Virginia,  and,  upon  the  death  of  Colonel  Ellsworth,  suc 
ceeded  him  as  Colonel  of  the  regiment.  Superintended  the  erection,  by  his 
regirnent,  of  Fort  Ellsworth,  at  Schuters'  Hill,  Virginia.  Although  suffering 
from  severe  illness,  he  was  actively  engaged  at  the  battle  of  Bull  Ran,  Vir- 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  399 

ginia,  July  18,  1861,  and,  while  leading  his  regiment  in  the  most  gallant  man 
ner,  was  struck  by  a  musket-ball  upon  the  side  of  the  head.  He  died  in  the 
hospital  at  Washington  on  the  14th  of  August,  1861,  from  abscess  of  the 
brain,  resulting  from  the  wound  received  at  Bull  Run. 

27.  Lieutenant  BENJAMIN  GREGORY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  22,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
of  Seventh  Regiment  (Harris  Light),  New  York  Cavalry  ;  was  prornoted 
to  be  First  Lieutenant,  August  1,  1861,  and  Adjutant,  February  1,  1862. 
Served  in  Northern  Virginia,  and  was  under  General  Kilpatrick  in  various 
engagements  and  skirmishes,  until  August,  1862.  Was  wounded  August 
9,  1862,  while  covering  the  retreat  from  Cedar  Mountain,  Virginia.  Appointed 
Paymaster,  United  States  Army,  September  1,  1862,  and  served  in  the  armies 
of  General  Sherman  and  General  Thomas.  Resigned  July  1,  1864.  Was 
mentioned  by  General  George  D.  Bayard,  in  report  of  advance  on  Fredericks- 
burg  in  April,  1862,  and  by  General  King,  in  report  of  skirmish  near  Han 
over  Junction,  July  22,  1862.  Lieuti-nant-Colonel  Judson  Kilpatrick,  in  the 
latter  affair,  mentions  "Adjutant  Gregory,  who  fearlessly  carried  orders  on  the 
field,"  with  high  praise  for  "  his  untiring  exertions  during  the  entire  expedi 
tions." 

28.  Paymaster  HENRY  S.  GREGORY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October,  1863,  as  Acting  Assistant  Pay 
master  in  the  navy,  and  was  ordered  to  the  United  States  steamer  Nyanza. 
Served  in  the  West  Gulf  Squadron,  and  was  stationed  at  Brashier  City  and 
Mississippi  Sound.  Took  part  at  the  capture  of  Mobile.  Was  honorably 
discharged  November,  1865. 

29.  Paymaster  OSCAR  HALL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  November,  1861,  as  Assistant  Store 
keeper  of  store-ship  Vermont,  and  was  on  board  during  the  dangerous  voyage 
of  that  vessel  to  Hilton  Head,  South  Carolina,  in  February,  1862.  Served  in 
the  Department  of  the  South  until  July,  1863.  Appointed  Acting  Assistant 
Paymaster  in  the  United  States  Navy  in  1863,  and  stationed  at  Mound  City, 
Illinois.  Resigned  in  1864. 

30.  Lieutenant  NORWOOD  A.  HALSEY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  20,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  the  Tenth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  engaged  in  all  the 
battles  of  the  Peninsular  campaign  in  1862,  and  was  promoted  to  be  First 
Lieutenant,  July  9,  1862,  for  "meritorious  conduct"  during  the  seven  days, 
which  order  was  read  to  the  whole  brigade.  Was  also  in  the  battles  under 
General  Pope  in  Northern  Virginia,  and  at  South  Mountain  and  Antietam. 
Was  appointed  Assistant  Provost-Marshal  on  the  staff  of  General  French,  and 
served  in  that  capacity  until  mustered  out  with  the  regiment,  May  7,  1863. 

31.  Engineer  R.  F.  HATFIELD. 

Assistant  Engineer  in  United  States  Navy  in  September,  1861,  and  ordered 


400  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

to  gunboat  Winona.  Was  actively  engaged  at  the  capture  of  Forts  Jackson 
and  St.  Philip,  and  was  at  the  surrender  of  New  Orleans.  Resigned,  on  ac 
count  of  sickness,  in  Jiily,  1862. 

32.  Captain  TOWNSEXD  L.  HATFIELD. 

ntered  the  United  States  service,  September  10,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
of  Company  C,  Forty -Eighth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers ;  First  Lieu 
tenant,  December  29, 1862  ;  Captain,  August  28,1863;  transferred  to  Signal 
Coi-ps,  January,  1 862 ;  was  at  the  capture  of  Port  Royal  Ferry,  in  General 
T.  W.  Sherman's  expedition,  January  1,  1862,  and  that  of  Fort  Pulaski,  April, 
1862;  was  with  the  army  during  Admiral  Dupont's  attack  on  Charleston 
Harbor,  July  9th  ;  was  one  of  the  storming  party  that  took  Morris  Island,  and 
was  present  at  the  storming  of  Fort  Wagner ;  was  present  and  wounded  at 
the  second  attack  on  Fort  Wagner;  January,  1864,  was  ordered  to  Florida 
with  Seymour,  and  was  at  the  battle  of  Olustee ;  remained  in  Florida  until 
honorably  discharged,  July  1,  1865. 

33.  Lieutenant-Colonel  HENRY  G.  HEALT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  17,  1861,  as  Captain  in  Sixty-Fifth 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States  Chasseurs) ;  was  promoted  to 
be  Major,  July  20,  1862,  and  Lieutenant-Colonel,  May  26, 1863.  Was  in  all  the 
battles  of  the  Peninsular  campaign  and  those  in  Northern  Virginia,  and  at  South 
Mountain  and  Antietam,  in  1862.  Was  at  the  battle  of  Fredericksburg  under 
General  Burnside,  and  was  wounded  at  the  storming  of  Marye's  Heights, 
at  Fredericksburg,  under  General  Sedgwick  in  1863,  receiving  a  gunshot 
wound  through  the  body.  Resigned,  in  1864,  on  account  of  disability  from 
wounds  received  in  the  service. 

34.  Captain  HENHY  H.  HARRALL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June,  1862,  as  Lieutenant  in  the  Twenty- 
Third  Connecticut  Volunteers,  and  served  at  New  Orleans  until  his  regiment 
was  mustered  out,  in  1863.  In  April,  1864,  enlisted  as  a  private  in  Twenty- 
Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  and  was  engaged  in  the  battles  in 
the  Shenandoah  Valley,  under  General  Sheridan.  Detached,  and  commissioned 
Captain  in  the  Thirty-Seventh  Regiment,  colored  troops.  Served  in  South 
Carolina,  and  mustered  out  August,  1865.  Was  present  also  at  Bull  Run 
as  a  private  in  the  Seventy-First  New  York. 

35.  Major  WILLIAM  W.  HARRAL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August,  1861,  as  Lieutenant  and  Quar 
termaster  of  the  Ninth  Connecticut  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  Captain 
and  Division  Quartermaster  on  the  staff  of  General  Butler,  March  8,  1862. 
Was  with  Butler  in  the  expedition  to  New  Orleans,  and  some  time  after  its 
capture  was  appointed  Major  and  Aide-de-Camp  on  the  staff  of  that  officer, 
with  whom  he  remained  till  Butler  was  relieved  by  Banks.  Subsequently 
served  as  Chief  of  Staff  to  General  Strong,  in  the  operations  of  Gillmore 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  401 

against  Charleston.  Was  present  in  the  operations  that  resulted  in  the  cap 
ture  of  Morris  Island,  and  participated  in  the  attacks  on  Fort  Wagner  and  the 
bombardment  of  Fort  Sumter.  Resigned  his  commission  on  the  death  of  Gen 
eral  Strong,  in  the  summer  of  1863.  Was  complimented  in  general  orders 
by  General  Strong  for  trying  to  recover  the  body  of  Colonel  Shaw,  of  the 
Fifty-Fourth  Massachusetts  Colored  Volunteers,  and  by  General  Gillmore  for 
crossing  Lighthouse  Inlet  for  reinforcements  in  an  open  boat  and  under  a 
heavy  tire. . 

36.  Purser  THOMAS  W.  K.   HOLDER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  December  28,  1861,  as  Purser  of  the  United 
States  ship  Boston,  and  participated  in  the  capture  of  Fort  Pulaski,  the  bom 
bardment  of  Fort  McAllister,  the  capture  of  Fernandina,  the  destruction  of 
the  Nashville,  the  bombardment  of  Charleston,  the  two  captures  of  Jackson 
ville,  the  two  expeditions  against  Pocotaligo  Bridge,  and  the  capture  of  Jarncs 
Island.  Resigned  July  22,  1863. 

37.  Brigadier-General  EDWARD  JARDINE. 

Entered  the  service  in  April,  1861,  as  Captain  of  Company  G,  Ninth  New 
York  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  Major,  February  8,  1962,  Lieutenant- 
Colonel,  1863,  Colonel,  1863  ;  and  brevetted  Brigadier-General  in  May,  1865. 

Served  in  1861,  in  Virginia,  under  Butler,  taking  part  in  the  engagement 
at  Big  Bethel  and  the  expedition  to  Hatteras  Inlet ;  and  in  North  Carolina 
in  1862,  under  Burnside,  taking  part  in  the  battles  at  Roanoke  Island  (for 
which  he  was  promoted),  and  Camden,  where  he  was  slightly  wounded.  Re 
turned  with  Burnside  and  the  Ninth  Corps  to  Virginia,  in  1862,  and  took  part 
in  the  battles  of  South  Mountain  and  Antietam,  in  command  of  the  Eighty- 
Ninth  New  York  Volunteers,  and  in  the  battle  of  Fredericksburg.  In  April, 
1863,  he  was  mustered  out  with  his  regiment,  by  reason  of  expiration  of  terni 
(two  years)  of  service,  but  reorganized  it  as  Colonel,  July  15, 1863  ;  took  part, 
with  his  command,  in  suppressing  the  New  York  Draft  Riots,  and  was  severely 
wounded,  being  beaten  by  the  mob,  and  suffering  a  compound  fracture  of  the 
thigh,  which  disabled  him  for  life.  Resigned  in  May,  1865,  on  account  of  his 
wounds,  and  received  for  services  at  "  Hatteras,  Roanoke,  Camden,  South 
Mountain,  Antietam,  and  Fredericksburg "  the  brevet  rank  of  Brigadier- 
General. 

38.  Captain  EUGENE  KELTY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant,  Nine 
teenth  Regiment,  Massachusetts  Volunteers.  Subsequently  commissioned 
Captain  in  Thirtieth  Regiment,  Massachusetts  Volunteers,  and  accompanied 
the  expedition  of  General  Butler  to  New  Orleans.  Was  killed  at  the  battle 
of  Baton  Rouge,  Louisiana,  in  July,  1862.  In  General  Butler's  official  re 
port  he  is  mentioned  as  "  that  gallant  officer  and  admirable  soldier,  Captain 
Eugene  Kelty,  of  Company  I,  Thirtieth  Massachusetts,  who  was  ordered  to 
deploy  his  brave  and  active  company  of  Zouaves  as  skirmishers  on  the  right, 
and,  in  the  performance  of  that  duty,  fell  bravely  at  their  head." 
26 


402  HISTORY    OF    THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

39.  Major  JAMES  S.  KING. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  2,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant  in 
Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States  Chasseurs). 
Was  promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant  in  January,  1 862.  Resigned,  on  account 
of  ill  health,  in  July,  1862.  Commissioned  Captain  in  the  One  Hundred  and 
Sixty-Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  in  September,  1862,  and  re 
signed,  on  account  of  ill  health,  in  July,  1863.  Commissioned  First  Lieuten 
ant  in  Seventy-Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  in  October,  1864,  and 
Captain  in  June,  1865.  Brevetted  Major  for  gallant  and  meritorious  conduct. 
Commissioned  Second  Lieutenant,  Thirteenth  Infantry  (Regular  Army),  May 
11,  1866,  and  is  still  in  the  United  States  service.  Served  in  all  the  battles  of 
the  Peninsular  campaign  in  1862,  and  under  General  Banks  in  Louisiana. 
Was  Provost-Marshal  for  several  months  of  the  Parish  of  St.  John  the  Baptist. 
Served  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  on  the  staff  of  General  Parke,  as  Provost- 
Marshal,  and  throughout  the  siege  and  capture  of  Petersburg, where  he  was 
wounded,  and  had  his  horse  killed  under  him.  Was  present  at  the  final  bat 
tles  and  at  Lee's  surrender. 

40.  Major  JOHN  LAWRENCE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  20,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Seventy-Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Second  Fire  Zouaves) ;  Ad 
jutant,  November  19,  1861,  Captain,  January  2,  1863,  and  Major,  January 
16,  1863.  Served  through  the  Peninsular  campaign,  in  Northern  Virginia, 
under  General  Pope,  and  was  at  South  Mountain,  Antietam,  Fredericksburg, 
Chancellors ville,  and  Gettysburg.  Resigned  in  1863. 

41.  Major  ROBERT  W.  LEONARD. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  15,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant 
and  Adjutant  in  One  Hundred  and  Sixty-Second  Regiment,  New  York  Vol 
unteers  ;  Major,  June  14,  1863.  Served  in  the  Department  of  the  Gulf,  under 
General  Banks.  Was  with  the  expedition  to  Sabine  Pass,  at  the  battle  of 
Bayou  Teche,  in  the  Red  River  Expedition,  and  at  the  capture  of  Port  Hud 
son.  Volunteered  in  the  forlorn  hope  organized  for  the  assault  on  Port 
Hudson.  Resigned  in  1864,  on  account  of  disease  contracted  in  the  service. 

42.  Captain  J.  HKNRY  LIEBENAU. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  December,  1861,  as  Captain  and  Assist 
ant  Adjutant-General,  and  was  assigned  to  the  staff  of  General  Viele  ;  served 
in  the  Department  of  the  South,  and  was  frequently  mentioned  in  general 
orders ;  superintended  the  erection  of  batteries  on  the  Savannah  River,  and 
was  at  the  capture  of  Fort  Pulaski ;  served  at  Norfolk  in  1862  -  63,  as  Assistant 
Adjutant-General  and  Provost  Marshal.  Resigned  In  October,  1863. 

43.  Master's  Mate  J.  WALTER  MACKIE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October,  1861,  as  Master's  Mate  in 
United  States  Navy,  and  was  ordered  to  bark  Restless ;  was  in  the  blockade 
service  at  Charleston,  South  Carolina,  and  vicinity  in  1862,  and  upon  the 


ROLL    OF   HONOR.  403 

coast  of  South  Carolina  and  Florida  in  1863  ;  resigned,  on  account  of  sickness, 
in  1864;  was  honorably  mentioned  for  services. 

44.  Lieutenant-Colonel  DAVID  W.  MARSHALL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant,  Sixteenth  Regiment, 
Ohio  Volunteers,  May  4,  1861,  and  appointed  Adjutant,  May  18,  1861  ;  com 
missioned  Captain  in  Fifty-First  Ohio  Volunteers,  Octobers,  1861,  Major,  May 
31,  1863,  and  Lieutenant-Colonel,  January  18,  1865  ;  mustered  out  at  Victoria, 
Texas,  October  4,  1865  ;  was  in  the  battles  of  Philippi  and  Carrick's  Ford,  in 
Western  Virginia,  in  June,  1861  ;  at  Stamford,  Dobson's  Ford,  Perry  ville,  and 
Stone  River  in  1862  ;  and  at  Ringgold,  Chickamauga,  Lookout  Mountain,  and 
Mission  Ridge  in  1863  ;  was  in  all  the  battles  during  General  Sherman's  ad 
vance  on  Atlanta,  in  1864,  and  at  the  battles  at  Franklin  and  Nashville,  Ten 
nessee,  under  General  Thomas  ;  was  wounded  at  Jonesboro',  Georgia  ;  served 
at  various  periods  and  places  as  Judge-Advocate,  Assistant  Adjutant-General, 
and  Assistant  Inspector-General  ;  was  actively  engaged  in  twenty  important 
battles,  and  very  many  skirmishes. 

45.  Lieutenant-Colonel  JOSEPH  E.  MCFARLAND. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  1,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  of  the 
Eleventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Fire  Zouaves)  ;  Captain,  August 
4,  1861,  and  Lieutenant-Colonel,  March  4,  1862  ;  was  at  the  battle  of  Bull  Run 
in  July,  1861  ;  served  with  the  regiment  at  Fortress  Monroe  and  Newport 
News  in  1861,  1862,  and  was  mustered  out  wiih  the  regiment  in  May,  1862. 


46.  Captain  JAMES  A. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  August  21,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant, 
Forty-Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers;  First  Lieutenant,  October  1, 
1861  ;  Captain,  July  17,  1862;  served  with  his  regiment  through  the  Penin 
sular  campaign  (1862),  and  under  General  Pope  in  Northern  Virginia  ;  was 
at  the  battles  of  South  Mountain  and  Antietam,  and  at  Fredericksburg,  under 
General  Burnside  ;  resigned,  on  account  of  ill  health,  December  30,  1862  ;  his 
company,  at  Antietam,  was  in  the  sharply  contested  cornfield,  and  General 
Hancock,  riding  up  to  him,  ordered  him  to  "  clear  out  "  a  house  full  of  sharp 
shooters  who  were  picking  off  our  artillerists  ;  it  was  done,  and  Hancock  vis 
ited  the  company  during  the  day,  and  complimented  it  on  the  performance. 

47.  Captain  DAVID  MILLER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  3,  1861,  as  Captain  in  Sixty- 
Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States  Chasseurs)  ;  was  en 
gaged  in  the  battles  of  the  Peninsular  campaign  in  1862;  appointed  Lieuten 
ant-Colonel  of  the  Fifth  Metropolitan  Regiment  in  September,  1862,  but 
declined  ;  resigned  in  November,  1862,  on  account  of  disease  contracted  in  the 
service,  his  resignation  being  accepted  by  Colonel  Shaler  with  "  deep  regret 
and  great  reluctance  "  ;  has  been  mentioned  in  general  orders. 


404  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

48.  Lieutenant  JAMES  MILLER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  April  20,  1861,  as  private  in  the  Fifth 
Regiment,  New  York  State  Volunteers  (Dnryee  Zouaves)  ;  commissioned  as 
Second  Lieutenant  of  Company  H,  May  9,  1861  ;  served  under  Butler  at  and 
near  Fort  Monroe,  and  was  detailed  by  that  officer,  July  15,  as  drill-master  to 
the  "  Union  Coast  Guard,"  from  which  duty  he  was  relieved  August  13,  and 
rejoined  his  regiment  at  Baltimore  ;  he  carried  to  General  Dix  a  letter  signed 
by  General  Butler,  which  said :  "  I  desire  to  bear  testimony  to  his  faithful  and 
efficient  service  on  that  duty,  for  which  I  hope  he  may  have  consideration." 
Resigned  September  6,  1861,  in  consequence  of  disease  contracted  in  the  line 
of  duty. 

49.  Lieutenant  SILAS  A.  MILLER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  August,  1861,  as  a  private  in  the 
Twelfth  Infantry  (Regular  Army),  and  was  shortly  afterwards  appointed  Ser 
geant;  was  appointed  Sergeant-Major  December  23, 1862,  and  promoted  to  be 
Second  Lieutenant  19th  February,  1863  ;  served  under  General  Banks  in  the 
Shenandoah  Valley,  and  was  taken  prisoner  at  the  battle  of  Cedar  Mountain, 
Virginia,  and  confined  six  weeks  at  Belleisle  ;  was  at  the  battle  of  Fredericks- 
burg  under  General  Bnrnside,  and  at  Chancellorsville  under  General  Hooker; 
commanded  his  company  at  the  battle  of  Gettysburg,  and  was  killed  in  the  en 
gagement  of  the  second  day.  At  the  time  of  his  death,  he  was  acting  as  colo 
nel  of  a  volunteer  regiment,  and  had  given  an  order  for  his  men  to  lie  down, 
but  himself  remained  standing,  when  he  was  shot  through  the  heart  by  a 
sharpshooter.  He  had  already  been  promoted  to  a  first  lieutenantcy,  but  never 
knew  it.  He  was  buried  on  the  field,  and  afterwards  his  remains  were  removed 
to  the  National  Cemetery  at  Gettysburg. 

50.  Lieutenant-Colonel  DAVID  I.  MILN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  20,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  the  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment.  New  York  Volunteers  (having  previously  served 
from  July  4  to  August  8  as  a  volunteer  officer  of  the  Eleventh  New  York  Vol 
unteers,  being  present  at  Bull  Run)  ;  was  promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant, 
January  1,  1862;  Captain,  August  1,  1862  ;  Major,  December  2,  1864;  and 
Lieutenant-Colonel,  June  20,  1865  ;  served  in  the  line,  and  in  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac,  from  the  beginning  to  the  end  of  the  war  ;  was  in  all  the  battles  of 
the  Peninsular  campaign,  —  at  Chantilly,  at  Marye's  Heights,  at  Gettysburg, 
and  in  the  battles  of  Grant's  campaign  from  the  Wilderness  to  Petersburg ; 
was  at  the  capture  of  General  Lee,  and  was  stationed  at  Danville,  Virginia, 
until  June  1,  1865  ;  was  detached  from  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  from  August 
to  December,  1864,  and  was  then  in  the  several  engagements  under  General 
Sheridan  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley  ;  at  the  battle  of  Spottsylvania  was 
wounded  in  the  head  by  a  musket-ball,  in  the  assault  on  the  angle,  May  12, 
1864;  was  brevetted  Lieutenant- Colonel,  "for  services  during  the  campaign 
closing  with  the  surrender  of  Lee  "  ;  mustered  out  July  27,  1865. 


ROLL    OF   HONOR.  405 

51.  Captain  JAMES  B.  Mix. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  November  27,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant 
and  Adjutant  of  the  Eleventh  New  York  Cavalry  ("  Scott  Nine  Hundred  ")  ; 
was  promoted  to  the  captaincy  of  Company  D,  September  27, 1862  ;  served  as 
commanding  officer  of  President  Lincoln's  body-guard  during  the  summer 
and  fall  of  1862;  was  injured,  and  for  a  time  disabled,  while  escorting  the 
President  on  one  occasion  from  the  Soldiers'  Home  to  the  White  House,  in 
assisting  the  President,  who  had  lost  control  of  his  horse  ;  was  placed  in  com 
mand  of  the  Old  Capitol  Prison,  May  11,  1863  ;  April  17,  1864,  rejoined  his 
regiment  at  New  Orleans,  and,  with  his  company,  was  placed  in  command  of 
St.  James's  Parish,  Louisiana  ;  was  honorably  discharged  September  12, 1864. 
Received  the  following  autograph  letter  from  President  Lincoln  :  "  I  take 
pleasure  in  certifying  that  Captain  James  B.  Mix  commanded  a  troop  of  cav 
alry  escorting  me  between  the  White  House  and  the  Soldiers'  Home,  and  that 
I  became  a  great  deal  attached  to  him.  I  have  not  had  any  reason  to  change 
my  estimation  of  him.  A.  LINCOLN." 

52.  Brigadier-General  EDWARD  L.  MOLINEUX. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  27,  1862,  as  Lieutenant- 
Colonel,  One  Hundred  and  Fifty-Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers ; 
was  promoted  to  be  Colonel,  November  25,  1862;  was  with  the  Banks 
Expedition  to  New  Orleans,  and  in  the  first  movement  against  Port  Hud 
son.  In  April,  1863,  Avas  severely  wounded  in  the  face,  at  the  battle  of 
Irish  Bend,  La ,  where  his  regiment  lost  nearly  one  third  its  numbers.  In 
August,  1863,  was  appointed  on  staff  of  Major-General  Franklin,  as  In 
spector-General  and  Provost-Marshal  of  the  Thirteenth  and  Nineteenth 
Army  Corps.  Was  in  the  battles  of  Vermilion  Bayou  and  Carrion 
Crow,  and  in  the  Red  River  campaign.  In  January,  1864,  placed  in 
command  of  the  La  Fourche  District.  Transferred  with  Nineteenth  Ar 
my  Corps  to  Virginia,  and  Avas  at  the  siege  of  Petersburg.  Commanded 
a  brigade  under  General  Sheridan  in  the  battles  in  the  Shenandoah 
Valley.  Upon  the  recommendation  of  General  Sheridan,  he  was  breveted 
Brigadier-General  for  gallantry  at  Cedar*  Creek,  to  date  from  that  battle.  In 
December,  1864,  was  sent  with  a  brigade  to  General  Sherman,  and  placed  in 
command  of  the  defences  of  Savannah.  In  May,  1865,  took  possession  of 
Augusta,  and  commanded  the  district  of  Northern  Georgia  and  South  Caro 
lina  until  August,  1865.  Was  honorably  mentioned  in  several  department 
orders,  and  in  various  official  reports,  for  the  good  order  maintained  in  that 
region.  In  the  battles  of  Winchester,  Fisher's  Hill,  and  Cedar  Creek  his  regi 
ment  lost  heavily,  and  he  was  specially  mentioned  in  the  corps  reports  of  each 
of  the  fights  for  promotion  for  gallantry.  At  Augusta  he  had  charge  of,  one 
hundred  thousand  bales  of  cotton  captured,  and  ten  million  dollars'  worth  of 
military  stores  and  bullion.  On  being  mustered  out,  the  merchants  and  Com 
mon  Council  of  the  city  gave  him  a  complimentary  address,  and  various 
county  meetings  voted  thanks. 


406  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

53.  Engineer  ISAAC  NEWTON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  14,  1861,  as  First  Assistant  Engi 
neer,  United  States  Navy.  Ordered  to  the  frigate  Roanoke,  and  was  in  the 
blockading  service  until  December  1,  1861.  Detached  and  ordered  to  New 
York  "  for  duty  in  connection  with  Ericsson's  battery,"  afterwards  known  as 
the  Monitor.  February  7,  1862,  was  ordered  to  report  to  Lieutenant-Com 
mander  Worden,  United  States  Navy,  as  Chief  Engineer  of  United  States 
iron-clad  Monitor.  Was  the  Chief  Engineer  during  the  engagement  with 
the  Rebel  ram  Merrimac,  and  the  attack  upon  Fort  Darling,  August  14, 
1862.  Detached  and  ordered  to  report  to  Rear-Admii*al  Gregory  at  New 
York  as  "  superintendent  of  iron-clad  vessels  at  that  place."  Performed 
that  duty  until  resignation,  February  8,  1865.  During  this  period  accompa 
nied  many  iron-dads  to  their  destination  on  the  Southern  coast ;  superintend 
ed  the  preparation  of  the  large  torpedoes  called  "  devils,"  intended  for  use 
against  Charleston  ;  and  was  constantly  engaged  in  the  preparation  of  plans 
for  the  new  iron-clc,ds.  Was  an  original  and  constant  advocate  of  the  Moni 
tor  system,  and  during  the  war  defended  it  in  the  principal  journals  and  reviews 
of  this  country.  The  officers  of  the  United  States  iron-clad  Monitor  re 
ceived  a  vote  of  thanks  from  Congress  for  their  gallantry  and  success  in  the 
engagement  with  the  Rebel  ram  Merrimac.  Captain  Worden  says  :  "  In 
the  emergency  which  arose  on  the  passage  to  Hampton  Roads  he  showed 
great  readiness  in  resources,  and  quickness  in  the  application  of  them.  In 
the  action  with  the  Merrimac  he  did  his  duty  with  coolness,  skill,  and 
energy." 

54.  Colonel  THEODORE  W.  PARMELEE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  31,  1862,  as  Colonel  One  Hun 
dred  and  Seventy-Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  the 
Department  of  the  Gulf  under  General  Banks  in  1863,  and  commanded  the 
brigade  sent  on  a  forced  reconnoissance,  to  open  communication  with  Admiral 
Farragut,  after  he  had  passed  the  batteries  of  Port  Hudson.  Was  injured  on 
the  expedition  by  the  fail  of  his  horse,  and  was  discharged  January  8,  1864, 
in  consequence  of  injuries  received  in  the  service. 

55.  Captain  W.  D.  PEARNE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  August,  1861,  in  the  Fourth  New  York 
Cavalry,  and  served,  "  without  rank  or  pay,"  through  Fremont's  campaign 
in  the  Shenandoah,  in  1862,  and  through  Pope's  campaign  in  Virginia,  until 
afrer  the  second  battle  of  Manassas.  Was  commissioned  First  Lieutenant 
Fifteenth  New  York  Cavalry,  August  19,  1863,  and  served  thenceforth  in  the 
Shenandoah  Valley.  Commanded  his  company  at  the  battle  of  New  Market, 
covering  the  retreat  to  Cedar  Creek,  and  took  part  in  the  engagements  at 
Piedmont,  Waynesboro',  and  Lynchburg,  under  Hunter,  and,  as  Aide-de- 
Camp  to  Colonel  Tibbitts,  commanding  brigade,  in  those  at  Winchester, 
Snicker's  Gap,  Ashby's  Gap,  and  in  the  Maryland  campaign  against  Early. 
In  December,  1864,  under  Sheridan,  took  part  in  the  fights  at  Lacy  Springs, 
Waynesboro',  and  Ashland  Station,  and  in  the  battle  of  Five  Forks. 


ROLL  OF    HONOR.  407 

At  the  second  Bull  Run  he  was  slightly  wounded ;  at  Piedmont  he  acted 
as  special  Aid  to  General  Hunter.  December  25,  1865,  he  was  brevetted 
Captain. 

56.  Captain  MOSES  L.  M.  PEIZOTTO. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July,  1862,  as  Captain  One  Hundred  and 
Third  Regiment,  Ohio  Volunteers.  Was  at  the  battle  of  Perryville,  Ky.,  and, 
after  the  retreat  of  General  Bragg,  was  actively  employed  in  Southern  Ken 
tucky.  Resigned  his  commission  in  January,  1863,  on  account  of  disease  con 
tracted  in  the  service. 

57.  Sergeant  GURDON  S.  PHIPPS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  June,  1861,  as  Sergeant  in  Sickles's 
brigade,  with  the  promise  of  a  commission  upon  taking  the  field.  Acted  as 
the  instructor  of  his  company,  and  served  in  General  Hooker's  division  in 
Maryland,  during  the  winter  of  1861  -  62.  Was  in  the  battles  of  the  Penin 
sular  campaign,  in  1862,  and  in  Northern  Virginia,  under  General  Pope,  num 
bering  ten  severe  engagements.  Was  mortally  wounded  at  Bristow  Station, 
Va.,  September,  1862,  and  was  left  upon  tbc  battle-field.  After  suffering  from 
hunger,  thirst,  and  a  painful  wound  for  three  days,  was  removed  to  a  hospital 
in  Washington,  where  he  died. 

58.  Colonel  HENRY  M.  PORTER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  January  15,  1862,  as  Captain  Seventh 
Regiment,  Vermont  Volunteers;  Major,  August,  1862;  Lieutenant-Colonel, 
August  26,  1865  ;  and  Colonel,  October  13,  1865.  Served  in  the  Department 
of  the  Gulf,  and  was  at  the  battles  at  Baton  Rouge  and  Donaldsonville,  La. 
Was  Provost-Marshal  of  New  Orleans  from  November,  1 863,  to  August,  1 864, 
and  was  mustered  out  April  6,  1866. 

59.  Lieutenant  DE  VAN  POSTLEY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  15,  1862,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  One  Hundred  and  Seventy-Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was 
in  the  campaign  of  General  Banks  in  Western  Louisiana,  and  against  Port 
Hudson,  in  1863.  Was  killed  at  the  battle  of  Donaldsonville,  La,,  in  July, 
1863.  His  funeral  was  attended  in  New  York  by  the  Second  Company. 

60.  Captain  JAMES  W.  POWELL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  20,  1861.  as  First  Lieutenant  of  the 
Seventy-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Sickles's  brigade),  and  was 
made  Adjutant,  July  18.  Promoted  to  be  Captain,  July  31,  1862.  Was  pro 
moted  to  be  Major  of  the  One  Hundred  and  Twenty-Sixth  New  York  Volun 
teers,  but  declined.  Was  transferred,  June,  1863,  to  Veteran  Reserve  Corps. 
Participated  in  thirteen  engagements,  namely,  Yorktown,  Peninsular  cam 
paign,  Fair  Oaks,  Seven  Pines,  Seven  Days'  Battles,  second  Malvern  Hill, 
Bristow  Station,  Fredericksburg,  1862,  and  subsequent  campaign.  He  re 
ceived  a  gunshot  wound  in  the  thigh  at  Bristow  Station,  August,  1862,  and 


408  HISTORY   OF   THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

a  scalp  wound  at  Altoona,  in  May,  1864.  Colonel  H.  L.  Porter  said  :  "No 
officer  was  more  brave,  gallant,  or  efficient."  Resigned  from  the  volunteer 
service,  June,  1 866,  after  over  five  years'  continuous  service.  Was  appointed 
July,  1866,  Captain  in  the  Forty-Second  Infantry,  and  is  still  in  the  Regular 
service. 

61.  Lieutenant  GLENN  PUTNAM. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  December,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  Sixth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  and  joined  his  regiment  at  Fort 
Pickens,  in  January,  1862.  Was  with  the  expedition  of  General  Banks 
through  Western  Louisiana  to  Alexandria,  and  to  Port  Hudson,  and  partici 
pated  in  the  battles  and  skirmishes  of  the  campaign.  Mustered  out,  July, 

1863. 

62.  Lieutenant  CHARLES  R.  REED. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  February  10,  1862,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  the  Marine  Artillery  Corps,  New  York  Volunteers,  and  served  in  North 
Carolina  in  1862  and  1863. 

63.  Lieutenant-Colonel  HENRY  FRANKLIN  SAVAGE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  June,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  and 
Adjutant  of  the  Twenty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  He  was 
made  Major  July  20,  1861,  and  was  present  in  the  reserve  at  Bull  Run.  He 
was  in  the  Peninsular  campaign  of  1862,  and  at  Hanover  Court- House  he  led 
the  left  wing  of  his  regiment.  He  was  severely  wounded  in  the  right  arm,  but 
refused  to  quit  the  field,  until,  exhausted  and  weak,  he  was  thrown  from  his 
horse,  and  at  first  left  for  dead.  He  was  mustered  out  of  the  service  for  dis 
ability ;  first,  however,  having  been  promoted  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel,  June, 
1 862.  He  never  recovered  from  his  wound,  dying,  after  a  short  and  severe  illness, 
October  17,  1862.  "  Colonel  Savage/'  writes  one  who  knew  him  well,  "was 
a  brave,  faithful,  and  patriotic  soldier  and  a  conscientious  gentleman.  In  the 
discharge  of  his  duties  in  the  Seventh  he  was  attentive  and  exact  evten  to 
punctiliousness.  He  was  known  in  the  regiment  as  the  Model  Sentinel. 
Anxious  to  learn,  and  ready  in  acquiring  a  knowledge  of  the  duties  of  his 
position,  no  one  could  surpass  him  in  correct  and  soldierly  habits  and  de 
meanor;  ardently  devoted  to  his  adopted  country,  no  one  chafed  more  restlessly 
than  he  at  the  few  days'  delay  which  intervened  between  the  muster  out  of  the 
Seventh  and  his  muster  in  as  Adjutant  of  the  Twenty-Fifth. 

"Privately  and  socially,  he  was  a  universal  favorite.  His  presence  was 
always  welcome.  Physically,  he  was  erect,  well  formed,  and  well  proportioned  ; 
warm-hearted  and  genial,  he  was  only  known  to  be  loved.  Had  it  been  his 
fortune  to  have  lived  and  fought  through  the  war,  he  would  have  won,  and 
honorably  worn,  the  stars  of  a  general." 

64.  Major-General  ALEXANDER  SHALER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  11,  1861,  as  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States  Chasseurs),  and 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  409 

Colonel,  July  17,  1862.  Served  with  great  distinction  in  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac,  upon  the  Peninsula,  in  1862,- and  was  actively  engaged  at  Williams- 
burg,  Fair  Oaks,  Malvern  Hill,  and  other  important  battles  of  the  campaign. 
Served  under  General  Pope  in  Northern  Virginia,  and  under  General  Mc- 
Clellan  in  Maryland.  Was  at  the  battle  of  Fredericksburg,  under  General 
Burnside,  December,  1862.  Commanded  a  brigade,  and  led  the  advance  at 
the  capture  of  Fredericksburg,  and  the  storming  of  Marye's  Heights  in  May, 
1863.  Was  commissioned  Brigadier-General  of  Volunteers,  for  gallantry  and 
meritorious  conduct,  May  26,  1863.  In  May,  1863,  General  Abercrombie 
recommended  the  government  to  give  Colonel  Shaler  a  high  position  in  the 
Regular  Army,  declaring  that  he  had  always  found  him,  "  whether  in  battle  or 
in  camp,  cool,  collected,  and  capable,"  and  no  officer  in  his  command  more 
deserving  in  every  respect.  General  Hooker  testified  to  the  "  fine  character 
and  eminent  soldiership  of  Colonel  Shaler."  General  Sedgwk-k  "  urged  his 
promotion  for  his  services  and  gallantry."  General  Newton  said  :  "  He  is  dis 
tinguished  for  his  exact  discipline  in  camp  and  coolness  in  an  emergency.  In 
our  last  campaign  on  the  Rappahannock,  his  gallantry  and  soldierly  qualities 
were  fullv  tested."  His  conspicuous  gallantry  at  Marye's  Heights,  and  the 
capacity  he  had  shown  for  command,  caused  many  of  the  leading  citizens  of 
New  York  to  unite  in  a  request  to  the  President  for  promotion,  which,  as  has 
been  said,  was  promptly  conferred.  Served  with  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  in 
the  campaigns  of  1863,  and  was  at  the  battle  of  Gettysburg.  In  the  brilliant 
affair  of  Rappahannock  Station  General  Shaler  played  a  chief  part,  General 
Sedgwick's  order  saying  (November  8,  1863) :  "  The  taking  of  the  heights  on 
the  right  by  Neil's  and  Shaler's  brigades  was  admirably  accomplished."  Dur 
ing  the  winter  of  1863-64  was  stationed  at  Sandusky,  Ohio,  in  charge  of  the 
prison  for  Rebel  officers,  at  Johnson's  Island.  Was  taken  prisoner  at  the  battle 
of  the  Wilderness,  in  May,  1864,  and  was  confined  at  Charleston,  S.  C.,  within 
range  of  the  United  States  batteries  on  Morris  Island.  Was  exchanged  in 
August,  1864,  and  ordered  to  report  to  General  Canby,  at  New  Orleans. 
Commanded  the  post  of  Columbus,  Ivy.,  and  in  January,  1865,  assumed  com 
mand  of  the  Second  Division,  Seventh  Army  Corps,  and  the  post  of  Du  Vall's 
Bluff,  Ark.  Was  brevet-ted  Major-General,  July  27,  1865,  for  "continuous, 
faithful,  and  meritorious  services  throughout  the  war,  and  especially  for  gal 
lantry  in  the  assault  upon  Marye's  Heights,  Fredericksburg,  Va.,  and  the  battle 
of  Gettysburg  and  the  Wilderness."  Mustered  out  of  the  service,  August 
24,  1865. 

On  the  23d  of  January,  1867,  General  Shaler  was  appointed  Major-General 
of  the  First  Division  National  Guard,  S.  N.  Y.,  by  Governor  Fenton,  and  still 
commands  the  division. 

65.  Captain  SIMOX  W.  SCOTT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  9,  1862,  as  Quartermaster  of 
the  One  Hundred  and  Seventy -Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was 
in  the  campaigns  of  General  Banks  in  Louisiana,  in  1863,  and  was  commis 
sioned  Captain  and  Assistant  Quartermaster.  Resigned  in  1864. 


410  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

66.  Captain  GEORGE  W.  SELOVER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  20,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States  Chasseurs),  and 
as  Captain,  November  1,  1862.  Was  in  the  principal  battles  of  the  Peninsular 
campaign,  and  at  South  Mountain  and  Antietam.  Was  at  the  battle  of  Fred- 
ericksburg,  under  General  Burnside.  Resigned  January,  1863. 

67.  Colonel  GEORGE  W.   STILWELL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  20,  1861,  as  Captain,  Sixty-Seventh 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  ;  brevetted  Major  for  "  gallant  and  meritorious 
services,"  July  23, 1866;  Lieutenant-Colonel,  September  13, 1866;  and  Colonel, 
October  16,  1866.  Served  through  the  battles  of  the  Peninsular  campaign  of 
1862,  and  commanded  his  Regiment  at  the  battles  of  William  sport,  South 
Mountain,  and  Antietam.  Was  at  the  battle  of  Frederick sburg,  under 
General  Burnside.  Resigned  on  account  of  disease  contracted  in  the  service, 
January  1,  1863.  Colonel  Stilwell  began  raising  his  company  April  17,  1861, 
and  enlisted  one  hundred  and  two  men. 

68.  Captain  CHARLES  H.  STIRLING. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  30,  1861,  as  private  in  the  Sixty- 
Second  Regiment,  New  York  Voli  nte  rs  (Anderson  Zouaves).  Was  promoted 
successively  to  be  Quartermaster,  Sergeant,  and  Second  Lieutenant.  Was 
mustered  in  as  First  Lieutenant,  August  31,  1861,  at  Washington.  November 
15,  1861,  was  appointed  Aide-de-Camp  on  General  Peck's  staff';  October,  1863, 
was  appointed  Acting  Assistant  Inspector-General  upon  General  Peck's  staff; 
June  4,  1864,  was  commissioned  as  Captain. 

Was  in  all  the  battles  of  the  Peninsular  campaign,  and  at  the  siege  of  Suffolk 
in  1863,  and  in  several  skirmishes  and  battles  in  Vii-ginia  and  North  Carolina 
in  1863  and  1864.  He  was  twice  wounded  at  Williamsburg,  and  again  at  Fair 
Oaks,. where  also  he  had  two  horses  shot  under  him.  General  Peck  mentioned 
him  for- "gallant  conduct"  in  his  report  of  Fair  Oaks,  and  also  in  his  report 
of  Williamsburg.  Later,  he  declared  that  Captain  Stirling  "  had  always 
acquitted  himself  with  distinction."  Received  many  recommendations  for 
promotion.  Resigned  November,  1864. 

69.  Lieutenant  ELIPHALET  W.  STRATTON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  15,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant  in 
Twenty-Eighth  Regiment,  Connecticut  Volunteers.  Went  with  the  Banks 
Expedition  to  New  Orleans,  and  was  in  the  movements  against  Port  Hudson 
in  1863,  his  regiment  losing  heavily.  Mustered  out  with  his  regiment  in  Sep 
tember,  1863. 

70.  Lieutenant-Colonel  CHARLES  H.  TAY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  May,  1861,  as  Captain  of  Second  Regi 
ment,  New  Jersey  Volunteers.  Was  at  the  battle  of  Bull  Run  in  1861,  and  in 
the  battles  of  the  Peninsular  campaign.  Was  commissioned  Major  for  gal 
lantry  and  meritorious  conduct  at  the  battle  of  Gaines's  Mills,  and  commanded 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  411 

his  regiment  in  all  the  battles  of  Northern  Virginia,  under  General  Pope,  and 
at  South  Mountain  and  Antietam.  In  October,  1862,  commissioned  Lieu 
tenant-Colonel  of  Tenth  Regiment,  New  Jersey  Volunteers.  Served  at  Nor 
folk,  Va.,  and  in  Pennsylvania,  in  1863.  Commanded  his  regiment  in  all  the 
battles  of  the  campaign  of  1864,  from  the  Wilderness  to  Petersburg,  Va.  Was 
taken  prisoner  at  the  battle  of  Spottsylvania,  and  was  recaptured  on  the  follow 
ing  day  by  General  Sheridan,  and  accompanied  him  in  his  raid  upon  Richmond. 
Was  in  the  various  battles  under  General  Sheridan  in  the  Shcnandoah  Valley, 
and  was  taken  prisoner  at  Winchester,  and  confined  at  Lynchburg,  Danville, 
and  Libby.  Exchanged  February  22,  1865,  and  resigned  March  7,  1865,  on 
account  of  disability  for  active  service,  contracted  by  reason  of  his  hardships 
and  long  imprisonment.  At  this  time  he  had  had  nearly  four  years  of 
continuous  service,  and  had  taken  part  in  about  thirty  battles  and  heavy 
skirmishes. 

Captain  Tay  was  appointed  Brigade  Engineer  by  General  Kearney,  and  his 
services  during  the  erection  of  Fort  Worth  were  highly  complimented  in  orders 
by  that  officer. 

71.  Captain  LUCIAN  M.  THAYER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  2,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  in 
the  Fifty-Third  New  York  Volunteers  (D'Epineul  Zouaves).  Took  part  in 
the  Burnside  Expedition  to  North  Carolina ;  but  at  Hatteraa  the  transport 
containing  his  regiment  was  blown  out  to  sea,  and  was  picked  up  by  the 
steamer  Ericsson,  after  a  cruise  of  forty-two  days.  The  regiment  was  mus 
tered  out  in  May,  1862. 

Re-entered  the  service,  August  19,  1862,  as  Captain  in  the  Fifty-First  Mas 
sachusetts  Volunteers,  and  served  under  General  Foster  in  North  Carolina, 
taking  part  in  the  battles  at  Kinston,  Whitehall,  and  Goldsboro'.  Was  mus 
tered  out,  with  his  regiment,  in  July,  1863. 

72.  Lieutenant  HENRY  J.  TIEMANN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  Septembers,  1862,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  One  Hundred  and  Fifty-Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was 
with  the  Banks  Expedition  to  New  Orleans,  in  the  Red  River  Expedition, 
at  the  siege  of  Port  Hudson,  and  in  other  engagements  in  Louisiana,  Ap 
pointed  Aide-de-Camp  to  General  Birgh,  February  5,  1863.  Resigned  Janu 
ary  1,  1864. 

73.  Captain  GEORGE  F.  E.  TYBRING. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  24,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
Seventy-Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers ;  First  Lieutenant,  May  4, 
1862.  Was  engaged  in  the  battles  of  the  Peninsular  campaign,  in  1862=  Ap 
pointed  Captain  and  Assistant  Quartermaster,  in  1863,  and  served  in  the  cam 
paigns  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  in  that  year,  in  the  campaign  of  General 
Grant  from  the  Wilderness  to  Petersburg,  and  under  General  Sheridan  in  the 
Shenandoah  Valley.  Mustered  out  August  27,  1865. 


412  HISTORY   OF   THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

74.  Captain  CHARLES  S.  VAN  NORDEN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861.  Served  in  Western  Virginia 
under  General  Rosecrans,  in  the  summer  and  autumn  of  1861,  as  military  in 
structor  of  the  Second  Regiment,  Virginia  Volunteers,  with  the  rank  of  Cap 
tain. 

75.  Lieutenant  A.  H.  VROOM. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  9,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Twenty-First  Regiment,  New  Jersey  Volunteers.  Served  with  the  Army  of 
the  Potomac  in  Virginia,  and  was  at  the  battle  of  Fredericksburg,  and  storm 
ing  of  Marye's  Heights,  under  General  Sedgwick.  Mustered  out  with  his 
regiment,  June  19,  1863. 

76.  Captain  ALMAR  P.  WEBSTER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  May,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  in  Ninth 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Hawkins's  Zouaves).  Was  promoted  to  be 
Captain,  September  3,  1862.  Was  at  the  battle  of  Big  Bethel,  and  with  the 
Burnside  Expedition  to  North  Carolina,  his  company  being  the  first  to 
land  at  Hatteras  Inlet.  Wounded  at  the  battle  of  Roanoke  Island.  Trans 
ferred  with  his  regiment  to  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  and  was  in  the  battles 
in  Northern  Virginia  under  General  Pope,  and  the  battles  of  South  Mountain 
and  Antietam  under  General  McClellan,  and  at  Fredericksburg  under  General 
Burnside.  At  Antietam  his  company  carried  in  sixty-three  men,  and  lost 
forty-one  killed  and  wounded.  Was  at  the  siege  of  Suffolk  by  Longstreet  in 
April,  1863,  Mustered  out,  with  his  regiment,  in  June,  1863. 

77.  Captain  E.  B.  WEBSTER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  August,  1862,  as  Second  Lieutenant,  One 
Hundred  and  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Second  Duryee's 
Zouaves).  Was  promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant,  September  6,  1863;  Cap 
tain,  August,  1865.  Served  in  the  Red  River  campaign,  under  General 
Banks,  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley  under  General  Sheridan,  and  in  Georgia 
under  General  Sherman.  Was  Aide-de-Camp  to  General  Grover,  from  August, 
1864,  to  the  close  of  the  war.  Mustered  out  October,  1865. 

78.  Captain  G.  V.  WEIR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  18,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant  in 
the  Fifth  United  States  Artillery.  Was  promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant  in 
1863.  Served  in  Virginia  successively  in  McDowell's  army  before  the  battle 
of  Bull  Run,  in  the  First  Corps,  under  McCall,  Meade,  Reynolds,  and  Sey 
mour,  in  the  Artillery  Reserve  under  Tyler  during  the  Gettysburg  campaign, 
in  the  draft  riots,  in  the  Second  Corps  under  Warren,  and  in  the  Shenandoah 
Valley  under  Crook,  Averill,  and  Sheridan. 

He  was  with  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  throughout  the  Peninsular  cam 
paign  of  1862,  Pope's  Virginia  campaign,  McClellan's  Maryland  campaign, 
and  the  campaigns  of  Burnside,  Hooker,  and  Meadc,  and  afterwards  in  the 
campaigns  of  Sheridan  and  others  in  the  Shenandoah  in  1864.  He  took  part 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  413 

in  the  battles  of  Mechanicsville,  Gaines's  Mills,  Charles  City  Cross-Roads, 
Malvern  Hill,  Groveton,  second  Bull  R,un,  South  Mountain,  Antietam,  first 
and  second  Fredericksburg,  Gettysburg,  Snicker's  Gap,  Winchester,  July  24, 
1864,  Mooren'eld,  Winchester,  September  19,  1864,  Fisher's  Hill,  and  Cedar 
Creek,  besides  many  other  engagements.  Was  brevetted  Captain,  and  in 
1867  was  in  service  with  his  regiment  at  Fort  Monroe,  being  Adjutant  of  the 
post. 

79.  Captain  WILLIAM  H.  WILLIAMS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  November  14,  1861,  as  Second  Lieuten 
ant  in  Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Cavalry  (Ira  Harris  Guard)  ;  First  Lieu 
tenant,  May  2,  1862  ;  and  Captain,  May  28,  1862.  Was  with  General  Banks 
in  the  Shenandoah  Valley,  in  1862,  and  with  General  Pope  in  his  campaign 
in  Northern  Virginia.  Resigned  February,  1863. 

80.  Lieutenant  JAMES  WOOD. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  1,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant,  One 
Hundred  and  Seventy-Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  with 
the  Banks  Expedition  to  New  Orleans,  and  was  actively  engaged  in  vari 
ous  engagements  in  Louisiana,  including  the  attack  upon  Port  Hudson,  and  the 
battle  of  Donaldson ville.  Resigned  August,  1863,  on  account  of  disease  con 
tracted  in  the  service. 

THIRD   COMPANY   (C). 

1.  Captain  GEORGE  W.  BACON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  November  10,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Company  I,  Ninety-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  promoted 
to  be  Captain,  October,  1862.  March  7,  1862,  A.  I).  C.  on  the  staff  of  Gen 
eral  Brannan,  and  so  continued  till  honorably  discharged,  March  17,  1863. 
Served  in  Department  of  the  South,  at  Key  West,  Port  Royal,  &c.  Took 
part  in  the  capture  of  Jacksonville  (Florida),  and  the  St.  John's  River  Expedi 
tion  in  October,  1862,  and  Mitchell's  expedition  towards  Pocotaligo  soon  after. 
Was  engaged  in  several  other  skirmishes  in  the  Department. 

2.  Colonel  WILLIAM  P.  BAILY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  16,  1861,  as  Lieutenant-Colonel  of 
the  Second  Regiment,  Delaware  Volunteers.  Promoted,  August  22,  1862,  to 
be  Colonel.  Served  in  the  First  Division,  Second  Corps,  under  Generals  Sum- 
ner,  Richardson,  and  Hancock.  Took  part  in  the  Eastern  Shore  Expedition, 
under  General  Lockwood,  and  was  engaged  at  Gaines's  Mills,  Peach  Orchard, 
Savage  Station,  Nelson's  Farm,  White-Oak  Swamp,  Malvern  Hill,  Malvern 
Hill  second,  Charlestown,  Snicker's  Gap,  Falmouth,  Frcdericksburg,  Chan- 
cellorsville,  Gettysburg,  Falling  Waters,  Manassas  Gap,  Mine  Run,  Wilder 
ness,  and  Spottsylvania  Court-House.  Was  wounded  in  the  left  breast  by  a 
fragment  of  shell  at  the  battle  of  Fredericksburg,  disabling  the  left  arm  so 


414  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

that  at  this  time  it  is  of  little  use.     Was  mustered  out,  with  his  regiment, 
May  16,  1864. 

At  Fivdericksburg,  where  Colonel  Baily  was  severely  wounded,  he,  with  his 
regiment,  led  the  charge  of  Zook's  brigade  ;  at  Chancellorsville  the  regiment 
was  highly  complimented  by  General  Hancock ;  at  Gettysburg  it  lost  half  its 
men  ;  and  there  Colonel  Baily  commanded  the  Fourth  Brigade,  after  the  wound 
ing  of  Colonel  Brook.  At  different  times  he  commanded  every  brigade  in  the 

division. 

3.  Captain  EUGENE  F.  BENEDICT. 

4.  Captain  W.  G.  BOMFORD. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  in  the  First 
Infantry  (Regular  Army).  Served  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  through  the 
war,  and  is  still  in  the  Regular  service. 

5.  Lieutenant-Colonel  JACOB  L.  BROWER. 

Captain,  United  States  Colored  Troops,  serving  in  Department  of  the 
South. 

6.  Lieutenant  CHARLES  L.  BROWN. 

Sergeant,  Fifty-Seventh  New  York  State  Volunteers,  served  during  war. 

7.  Captain  W.  C.  BURTON. 

Entered  the  United    States  service   in  1861,  in  the Regiment.     Was 

appointed  on  the  staff  of  General  Brennan,  and  served  in  the  Department  of 
the  South,  at  Key  West,  at  Hilton  Head,  and  in  Florida. 

8.  Lieutenant  GEORGE  B.  BUTLER,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  1,  1861,  as  private  in  the  Second 
Artillery  (Regular  Army).  Was  promoted  in  August,  1861,  to  be  Second  Lieu 
tenant  in  the  Third  Infantry.  Promoted  to  bo  First  Lieutenant,  1862.  Was 
engaged  with  his  regiment  in  the  campaigns  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac, 'es 
pecially  in  the  battles  at  Chancellorsville  and  Gettysburg,  with  the  Fifth  Corps, 
under  General  Sykes.  Was  noticed  for  gallant  conduct  in  the  second  day's 
battle  of  Gettvshurg ;  in  the  third  dav's  battle  he  was  severely  wounded, 
losing  his  right  arm.  Resigned  from  the  service  in  October,  1863,  having  no 
desire  to  remain  in  it  after  being  disqualified  for  active  duty. 

9.  Captain  A.  S.  BUSH. 

10.  Lieutenant-Colonel  W.  H.  CHESERROUGII. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  14,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant,  Elev 
enth  Infantry  (Regular  Army),  and  was  assigned  as  Aid  to  General  Schenck, 
commanding  Ohio  brigade,  of  Tvler's  division".  Served  at  Bull  Run  through 
the  whole  of  Rosecrans's  West  Virginia  campaign,  in  its  various  actions  in 
1S61  ;  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley,  under  Fremont  and  Milroy  and  Sigel,  in 
1862,  being  present  at  the  battles  at  McDowell  and  Cross  Keys  ;  served  also  the 
same  year  as  A.  A.  A.  G.,  and  as  mustering  officer  of  the  First  Corps,  and 


ROLL   OF  HONOR.  415 

\vas  present  at  the  actions  at  Cedar  Mountain,  Rappahannock  (August  23d), 
Freeman's  Ford,  Sulphur  Springs,  Waterloo  Bridge,  Centreville,  Groveton, 
and  second  Bull  Run.  January  27,  1863,  was  appointed  Lieutenant-Colonel 
and  A.  A.  G.,  Eighth  Corps,  and  remained  on  the  staffs  of  Generals  Schenck, 
Lockwood,  and  Lew  Wallace,  who  successively  commanded  the  Middle  De 
partment  and  the  Eighth  Corps.  Resigned  April  26,  1864.  At  the  first 
Bull  Run  Colonel  Chesebrough  had  his  horse  killed  by  a  solid  shot,  and  at 
the  second  Bull  Run  had  a  horse  killed  by  a  bullet. 

11.  Colonel  CLINTON  G.  COLGATE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  19,  1861,  as  Major  Fifteenth  Regi 
ment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel  in 
August,  1861,  and  Colonel,  November,  1862.  Served  as  Lieutenant-Colonel 
throughout  the  Peninsular  campaign  in  the  Engineer  Corps  (General  Wood- 
bury),  participating  in  all  its  battles.  Joined  Burnside  at  Falmouth,  and 
laid  the  pontoon  bridge  across  the  Rappahannock  at  the  first  battle  of  Freder- 
icksburg,  for  which  he  was  specially  noticed  in  general  orders.  Was  Avith 
Hooker  at  Chancellorsville,  and  laid  the  pontoons  across  the  Rappahannock 
at  Fredericksburg,  Banks's  Ford,  and  United  States  Ford.  Mustered  out,  with 
his  regiment,  June  20,  1863.  While  under  orders  to  proceed  to  New  York  for 
this  service,  he  volunteered  his  command  to  cover  the  dismantling  of  the  works 
at  the  evacuation  of  Aquia  Creek  ;  and  for  this  service  he  received  a  letter  of 
thanks,  designed  for  publication,  from  General  G.  K.  Warren,  commanding,  in 
Avhich  he  says  that  by  this  volunteer  service  "  much  public  property  and  many 
lives  were  saved." 

12.  Paymaster  CYRUS  R.  CRANE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as Paymaster.  Served  in  the  De 
partment  of  the  East. 

13.  Lieutenant  GARDNER  K.  DOUGHTY. 

Enlisted  in  Forty-Eighth  New  York  Volunteers;  was  wounded  at  Olustee; 
promoted  to  be  a  Lieutenant,  and  discharged  at  close  of  war. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  December  2,  1861,  as  private  in  the 
Forty-Eighth  Regiment,  New  York  State  Volunteers  (Colonel  Perry).  Was 
promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant,  June  1,  1863.  Served  in  South  Carolina, 
Georgia,  Florida,  and  Virginia,  under  Gillmore  and  Seymour,  in  the  Tenth 
Corps.  Was  engaged  at  Port  Royal  Ferry,  Coosahatchie,  Savannah  River, 
Fort  Pulaski,  Olustee,  Chester  Station,  and  Dairy's  Bluff  (Virginia),  at 
which  last,  place  he  was  shot  in  both  shoulders.  Was  mustered  out,  with  his 
regiment,  December  1,  1864. 

14.  Lieutenant-Colonel  THOMAS  ELLIOT. 

Captain,    Bemis   Heights   Regiment,  New   York    State   Volunteers ; 

served  in  Army  of  Potomac,  and  under  Hooker  in  Western  Army.  Promoted 
to  Lieutenant-Colonel. 


416  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

15.  Captain  L.  A.  FISH. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  25,  1861,  as  private  in  Company 
C,  Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Hawkins's  Zouaves).  Promoted 
to  be  Corporal,  Oetober  1,  1861 ;  to  be  Sergeant,  August  20,  1862.  Commis 
sioned  Second  Lieutenant,  Company  E,  One  Hundred  and  Seventy -Fourth 
New  York  Volunteers  (Fifth  Metropolitan  Guards),  October  21,  1862.  Pro 
moted  to  be  Captain,  Company  E,  July  13,  1863.  Was  present  at  the  cap 
ture  of  Hattcras,  August  29,  1861,  at  the  battles  of  Roanoke  Island  and  Cam- 
den,  North  Carolina,  at  South  Mountain  and  Antietam  ;  in  the  Banks  Ex 
pedition  to  Louisiana,  and  the  Port  Hudson  campaign,  including  the  battle 
at  Donaldsonville,  the  fight  at  Port  Hudson  Plains,  and  the  various  assaults 
and  the  siege  of  Port  Hudson,  and  the  Sabine  Pass  Expedition.  Volunteered 
in  the  forlorn  hope  at  Port  Hudson.  Honorably  discharged  January  25,  1864. 

16.  Adjutant  PHILIP  D.  GULAGER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Assistant  Adjutant-General.  Served 
on  the  staff  of  General  Ulmarm,  in  Louisiana. 

17.  Captain  MOSES  C.  HAG  ADORN. 

18.  Major-General  JOSEPH  E.  HAMBLIN. 

Entered  the  United  Stated  service,  April  22,  1861,  as  Adjutant  of  Duryec's 
Zouaves  (Fifth  New  York  Volunteers),  and  was  commissioned  May  10, 1861. 
Promoted  to  be  Captain,  August  10,  1861.  Commissioned  Major  of  First 
United  States  Chasseurs  (Sixty-Fifth  New  York  Volunteers),  November  4, 
1861.  Promoted  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel,  July  20,  1862;  Colonel,  May  26, 
1863;  Brigadier-General  by  brevet,  "for  gallant  and  meritorious  services  at 
Cedar  Creek,  Virginia,"  October  19,1864;  Brigadier-General,  May  19,  1865; 
Major-General  by  brevet,  for  conspicuous  gallantry  at  tlie  battle  of  Sailors' 
Creek,  Virginia,  April  5,  1865. 

Served  in  all  the  campaigns  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  and  also  in  the 
Washington  and  Shenandoah  Valley  campaign,  under  Phil  Sheridan.  Was 
at  the  battles  of  Big  Bethel,  Yorktown,  Williamsburg,  Fair  Oaks,  Glcndale, 
Malvern  Hill,  Antietam,  Fredericksburg,  Marye's  Heights,  Salem  Heights, 
Gettysburg,  Rappahannock  Station,  Mine  Run,  Wilderness,  Spottsylvania 
Court-House  (two  battle^),  Cold  Harbor,  Winchester,  Fisher's  Hill,  Cedar 
Creek  (or  Middletown),  Hatcher's  Run,  in  front  of  Fort  Fisher  on  the  Peters 
burg  Line,  Petersburg  (the  final  charge),  and  Sailors'  Creek,  Virginia.  Was 
wounded  by  a  rifle-ball  at  the  battle  of  Cedar  Creek,  through  the  right  thigh, 
and  confined  three  months ;  but,  with  this  exception,  was  constantly  on  duty 
from  the  beginning  to  the  end  of  the  war,  and  his  brigade  and  regiment  were 
the  last  ones  mustered  out  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac. 

19.  Lieutenant-Colonel  ROBERT  MoD.  HART. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1862,  and  rose,  through  various  grades, 
to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel  and  Inspector-General,  in  the  Sixth  Army  Corps. 
Was  killed  at  Cedar  Creek,  Virginia. 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  417 

20.  Captain  WILLIAM  HOWLAND. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the  One  Hundred  and 
Twenty-Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  Virginia  and 
in  South  Carolina.  Was  wounded  and  honorably  discharged  with,  his  regi 
ment. 

21.  Captain  FREDERICK  HURST. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the  Forty-Seventh  Regi 
ment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  the  Department  of  the  South,  in 
South  Carolina.  Was  wounded  at  the  assault  on  Fort  Wagner,  and  was 
taken  prisoner  and  carried  to  Charleston,  where  he  died  of  his  wounds. 

22.  Major  FRANK  JEFFREY. 

Major  Sixth  Connecticut  Volunteers. 

23.  Lieutenant  EDGAR  KETCHUM,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1863,  as  Second  Lieutenant  in  the 
Signal  Corps,  United  States  Army.  Was  on  duty,  in  1864,  at  New  Market, 
Virginia,  and  Georgetown,  District  Columbia.  At  the  former  point  was 
engaged  in  the  repulse  of  Longstreet's  forces,  December  10,  1864.  Took  part 
in  Terry's  capture  of  Fort  Fisher,  where  the  signal  flags  and  torches  were 
a  mark  for  sharpshooters.  Had  his  signal-station  on  the  parapet  next  day, 
when  the  magazine  exploded.  Took  an  active  part  in  the  operations  of  Scho- 
field  and  Cox  against  Wilmington,  and  was  with  Terry  from  Wilmington  to 
Raleigh.  Was  honorably  discharged  August  12,  1865. 

24.  Lieutenant  LEWIS  M.  JOHNSON. 

Lieutenant  New  York  State  Volunteers ;   served  in  Army  of  Potomac. 
25.  Captain  J.  M.  LEWIS,  JR. 
26.  Sergeant  DAVID  O.  LOGAN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861,  as  a  private  in  the  Ninth  Regi 
ment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Hawkins's  Zouaves).  Was  promoted  to  be 
Sergeant.  Served  in  North  Carolina,  arid  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  in 
the  various  campaigns  of  the  regiment,  and  was  mustered  out  with  it  at  the 
expiration  of  its  term  of  service. 

27.  Captain  HENRY  W.  T.  MALI. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Second  Lieutenant,  Twentieth  Massa 
chusetts  Volunteers.  Was  wounded  at  battle  of  the  Wilderness,  promoted  to 
be  Captain,  and  discharged  at  close  of  the  war. 

28.  Paymaster  J.  W.  MANGAM. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  5,  1863,  and  was  attached  to  the 
Potomac  flotilla.  Served  in  blockade  duty  on  the  Potomac  flotilla,  under 
Commodore  Parker,  on  the  United  States  steamer  Eureka,  and  the  mortar 
schooner  Matthew  Vassar.  Resigned,  December  1,  1863,  in  consequence 
of  fever  contracted  in  the  service. 
27 


418  HISTORY   OF  THE   SEVENTH  EEGIMENT. 

29.  Lieutenant  CHARLES  F.  MARSH. 
Lieutenant  Twenty-Fifth  New  Jersey. 

30.  Brigadier-General  GILBERT  H.  McKiBBEN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  9,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant  in 
the  Fifty-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  First  Lieu 
tenant,  May  16,  1862  ;  Captain,  and  Assistant  Adjutant-General  United  States 
Volunteers,  October  14,  1862.  Brevetted  Major,  Lieutenant-Colonel,  Colonel, 
and  Brigadier-General,  "  for  long  and  distinguished  services  during  the  war," 
December  2,  1864;  and  in  January,  1865,  was  assigned  to  duty  according  to 
his  brevet  rank  as  Brigader-General.  December  9,  1864,  appointed  Colonel 
of  his  regiment,  but  declined.  Served  with  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  and 
in  North  Carolina,  Kentucky,  and  Tennessee  Was  present  at  the  following 
battles  :  Roanoke  Island,  Newbern,  second  Bull  Run,  Chantilly,  South  Moun 
tain,  Antietam,  Fredericksburg,  Vicksburg,  Jackson,  Knoxville,  Campbell's 
Station,  Tennessee,  Strawberry  Plains,  Tennessee,  Loudon,  Tennessee,  Wil 
derness,  Spottsylvania,  Cold  Harbor,  Tolapotamoy,  and  six  of  the  battles 
around  Petersburg  and  Richmond.  Was  shot  through  the  face  before  Pe 
tersburg,  18th  June,  1864,  and  thereby  incapacitated  for  duty  eighty  days. 
Mustered  out  of  the  service  September  19,  1865. 

31.  Captain  SAMUEL  G.  MILLIGAN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain,  in  Kilpatrick's  regiment 
cavalry  (New  York  Harris  Light  ).  Served  in  Virginia.  Died  from  disease 
contracted  in  service  on  the  Rapidan,  in  the  line  of  duty. 

32.  Captain  HENRY  II.  MOTT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  1,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Company  A,  Fifty-Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Promoted  to 
be  Captain,  February  8,  1862.  Served  in  Virginia,  with  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac,  Second  Corps,  and  took  active  part  in  the  battles  at  Yorktown, 
Williamsburg,  Fair  Oaks,  Gaines's  Mills,  Peach  Orchard,  Savage  Station, 
White-Oak  Swamp,  Malven  Hill,  Antietam,  Fredericksburg,  second  Bull  Run, 
Auburn,  Bristow  Station,  and  numerous  skirmishes.  Was  also  in  the  defences 
of  Washington  during  Early 's  raid  in  1864.  Was  afterwards  detailed,  com 
manding  Kendall  Green  Barracks,  at  Washington ;  and  Acting  Assistant 
Adjutant-General  at  Fort  Bunker  Hill,  District  Columbia,  and  of  Post  Elmira, 
New  York  ;  and  at  New  Orleans,  in  1866.  Was  wounded  in  the  hip,  in  the 
lung,  and  in  the  right  arm,  the  latter  wound  being  a  compound  fracture,  render 
ing  the  arm  nearly  useless.  Was  honorably  discharged  September  8,  1866. 

33.  Lieutenant  GEORGE  H.  PACKWOOD. 

Second  Lieutenant,  Twentieth  Massachusetts  Volunteers.  Served  in  front 
of  Petersburg,  and  discharged  at  close  of  war. 

34.  Lieutc.nant  WILLIAM  H.  PECK. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant.  Served  in  Quarter 
master's  Department,  Army  of  the  Potomac. 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  419 

35.  Lieutenant  AMBROSE  H.  PURDY. 

Quartermaster. 

36.  Captain  HERMAN  G.  RADCLIFF. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  July,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Eighteenth  Infantry  (Regular  Army).  Was  with  General  Buell  in  his  Kentucky 
and  Tennessee  campaign,  and  afterwards  with  General  Rosecrans.  Took  part 
in  the  battle  of  Perryville,  and  commanded  his  company  throughout  the  four 
days'  battle  of  Stone  River,  or  Murfreesboro'.  He  was  already,  at  this  time, 
suffering  from  disease  contracted  in  the  service,  in  the  line  of  duty,  and  his 
devotion  and  activity  during  the  battle  so  accelerated  it,  that  he  died  at 
Murfreesboro',  a  few  days  after  the  battle. 

37.  Sergeant  Louis  L.  ROBBINS. 

Enlisted  private,  Twenty-Third  Massachusetts  Volunteers.  Served  in  Ninth 
Army  Corps  till  April,  1863;  transferred  to  Eighteenth  Army  Corps;  served 
till  October,  1864,  when  he  was  discharged. 

38.  Lieutenant  ALEXANDER  M.  C.  SMITH,  JR. 

Lieutenant  Second  New  York  Cavalry,  and  transferred  to  Sixteenth  New 
York  Artillery. 

39.  Lieutenant  JOSEPH  M.  STAMFORD. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1863,  as  Lieutenant  Company  H, 
Thirty-Eighth  Regiment,  New  Jersey  Volunteers,  Colonel  Sewell.  Served  on 
the  James  River  at  Eort  Powhatan,  and  was  soon  after  made  Post  Adjutant 
of  Fort  Pocahontas,  so  remaining  until  the  close  of  the  war.  Was  chiefly 
engaged  in  garrison  and  outpost  duty. 

40.  Captain  WALDO  SPRAGUE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  24,  1861,  as  Ensign  in  the  Seven 
teenth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be  First  Lieuten 
ant  and  Adjutant,  July  14,  1862  ;  was  promoted  to  be  Captain,  January,  1863. 
He  served  throughout  the  Peninsular  campaign  under  McClellan,  at  second 
Bull  Run  under  Pope,  at  Fredericksburg  under  Burnside,  at  Chancellors- 
ville  under  Hooker,  and  on  the  White  House  raid  under  Stoneman.  He  was 
shot  through  the  body,  and  had  his  left  arm  broken  at  Bull  Run.  Was 
honorably  mentioned.  Was  mustered  out  of  the  service  with  his  regiment, 
June  6,  1 863. 

41.  Captain  THEODORE  STAGG. 

42.  Brigadier-General  HENRY  EDWIN  TREMAIN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  13,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant,  Second 
New  York  Fire  Zouaves.  Served  as  Aide-de-Camp,  on  brigade  staff  of  the 
Excelsior  Brigade,  under  General  Sickles  and  Nelson  Taylor  on  the  Peninsula, 
throughout  all  the  battles  of  that  campaign  ;  was  specially  mentioned  in 
brigade  reports  at  Williamsburg  for  "  ability  "  ;  at  Fair  Oaks  for  "  courage, 
zeal,  and  ability  "  ;  at  Malvern  Hill,  for  "zeal  and  gallantry  "  ;  was  transferred 


420  HISTORY   OF    THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

with  the  corps  to  Pope's  army,  and  was  engaged  at  Bristow  Station  and 
second  Bull  Run,  and  captured  at  the  latter  battle.  General  Nelson  Taylor's 
report  says,  "  His  bravery  and  gallantry  excited  my  admiration,  and  have  my 
warmest  thanks"  ;  and  "he  was  taken  prisoner  while  endeavoring  to  check  the 
panic  and  the  rapid  advance  of  the  enemy."  He  had  previously  been  com 
mended  in  official  reports  of  "  The  Orchards,"  June  25,  of  Glendale,  and  of 
Bristow,  for  "  courage,  devotion  to  duty  under  all  circumstances,  intelligence, 
and  usefulness." 

Was  confined  in  Libby  Prison,  among  the  "hostages"  of  1862;  was  ex 
changed  and  returned  to  Sickles's  division  staff,  October,  1862,  as  Assistant 
Inspector-General  ;  was  present  at  Fredericksburg  and  Chancellorsville,  be 
ing  mentioned  for  gallantry  in  latter  battle.  Served  as  Aide-de-Camp  on 
Hooker's  staff,  at  the  latter's  request,  until  his  relief  by  Meadc.  Took  part  in 
the  battle  of  Gettysburg,  on  the  staff  of  General  Sickles,  who  there  lost  a  leg. 
In  1864  volunteered  on  General  Butterfield's  staff,  at  Chattanooga,  and  took 
part  in  the  battles  at  Dalton  and  Resaca,  being  specially  mentioned  in  orders 
for  great  gallantry  and  efficiency.  Was  then  ordered  to  rejoin  Sickles.  In 
November,  1864,  requesting  field  duty  of  the  -Secretary  of  War,  he  was  ordered 
first  to  General  Mott's  staff  (Third  Division,  Second  Corps),  and  then  to  Gen 
eral  Gregg's  (cavalry)  staff,  afterwards  General  Crook's.  Took  part  at  the 
battles  of  Hatcher's  Run,  Dinwiddie  Court-House,  Jetersville,  Sailors'  Creek, 
&c.,  to  Lee's  surrender. 

On  recommendation  of  many  officers,  was  brevetted  Major  and  Aide-de- 
Camp  during  the  Chancellorsville  campaign  ;  Lieutenant-Colonel  (March  13, 
186")),  and  Colonel  (June  12,  1865),  for  "gallant  and  meritorious  services"; 
Brigadier-General  (November  29,  1865),  "  for  faithful  and  meritorious  services 
during  the  war."  Remained  on  duty  in  South  Carolina  and  elsewhere  after 
the  war,  and  was  honorably  discharged  April  29,  1866. 

43.    Lieutenant  WALTER  RUTHVEN  TREMAIN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant,  Second 
New  York  Fire  Zouaves,  Seventy-Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 
Was  commissioned  afterwards  First  Lieutenant  of  the  Fifty-Third  Regiment 
New  York  Volunteers,  and  was  subsequently  transferred  to  the  One  Hundred 
and  Thirty-Second  New  York  Volunteers  (Colonel  Classen),  and  acted  for 
a  time  as  Adjutant.  Served  at  Suffolk  and  on  the  Blackwater  under  Gen 
eral  Peck,  in  1862.  His  unremitting  devotion  to  his  duties  on  severe  picket 
and  expeditionary  duty  was  followed  by  a  fever,  which  resulted  in  his  death, 
December  25,  1862.  Almost  bis  last  thoughts  were  for  his  country,  and 
his  only  regret  Avas  that  he  had  "  done  so  little  for  her."  His  service  was 
thoroughly  patriotic.  A  strict  disciplinarian,  and  soldierly  and  dignified  in 
courage,  his  great  amiability  endeared  him  to  his  brother-officers  and  men. 
His  regiment  passed  resolutions  of  respect  to  this  "most  efficient,  prompt, 
and  promising  young  officer,"  "  endeared  to  us  by  his  kind,  generous  nature," 
and  "  of  the  countrv  a  brave  and  noble  defender."  One  who  knew  him 


ROLL  OF  HONOR.  421 

well  writes :  "  Although  but  nineteen  when  he  died,  he  was  generally 
thought  to  be  much  older.  He  was  handsome  in  feature  and  form,  graceful 
in  manner,  but  without  affectation,  sincere  and  true  in  all  his  relations,  an 
obedient  son,  a  loving  brother,  a  true  patriot,  and  a  youthful  martyr  to  his 
love  of  country  and  the  cause  of  republican  government."  He  was  the 
second  son  of  Edwin  R.  Tremain  of  New  York,  and  brother  of  General  H. 
E.  Tremain. 

44.  Captain  WILLIAM  W.  TRACY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  December  17,  1862,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
of  the  Thirty-First  New  York  Volunteers,  was  promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant, 
January  14,  1863,  and  served  as  Adjutant  from  June  15  to  October  14,  1863. 
Served  in  the  Sixth  Corps  in  the  Chancellorsville  campaign,  where  his  regiment 
lost  half  its  numbers.  February  4,  1864,  was  commissioned  as  Captain  in  the 
Twenty-Sixth  United  States  Colored  Troops,  and  served  in  South  Carolina, 
part  of  the  time  on  the  staffs  of  Generals  Saxton  and  E.  E.  Potter.  Was 
engaged  in  the  battle  at  Pocotaligo,  and  in  numerous  skirmishes  around 
Charleston  Harbor.  Was  mustered  out,  with  his  regiment,  August  31,  1865. 

45.  Lieutenant-Colonel  THOMAS  R.  TURNBULL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant-Colonel  of  one  of  the  New 
York  Metropolitan  Regiments.  Served  in  the  Department  of  the  Gulf, 
Louisiana. 

46.  Captain  GEORGE  TUTHILL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  27,  1861,  as  Captain  in  the  Ninth 
Regiment,  New  York  State  Militia,  afterwards  the  Eighty-Third  Regiment  of 
New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  June  and  July,  1861,  on  the  Upper  Potomac 
and  in  Virginia  under  Generals  C.  P.  Stone,  Patterson,  and  Banks.  July  5 
was  detached  by  General  Stone  to  a  command  at  Harper's  Ferry,  with  head 
quarters  at  Sandy  Hook.  While  there  he  received  and  transmitted  the  famous 
disputed  order  of  General  Scott  to  General  Patterson,  to  prevent  the  junction 
of  Johnston  with  Beauregard  at  Manassas.  This  order  was  put  into  the  hands 
of  a  courier  by  Captain  Tuthill,  and  sent  to  General  Patterson,  then  at  Mar- 
tinsburg,  and  there  delivered  to  his  Adjutant-General.  The  order  was,  as 
nearly  as  I  can  remember,  in  these  words  :  "  General  Patterson,  General. 
Push  on  with  all  despatch.  Admit  of  no  delay.  Prevent  a  junction  of  the 
enemy  at  all  hazards.  (Signed)  Winfield  Scott."  July  24,  was  relieved  by 
Colonel  Gordon  with  the  Second  Massachusetts.  Left  the  service  from  sick 
ness  contracted  in  the  line  of  duty. 

47.    Surgeon  THOMAS  BARNETT  TUTHILL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Surgeon  in  the  Navy.  Served  through 
out  the  war,  mostly  in  the  North  Atlantic  Squadron. 

48.  Sergeant  LEWIS  C.  UPDIKE. 

Private,  One  Hundred  and  Seventy-Sixth  New  York  Volunteers  ;  served  in 
Nineteenth  Army  Corps,  Department  of  the  Gulf. 


422  HISTORY    OF    THE   SEVENTH   EEGIMENT. 

49.  JAMES  B.  VAN  CLEEF,  U.  S.  N. 
Entered  the  United  States  service  as  sailor ;  served  with  Farragut, 

50.  Lieutenant  WILLIAM  A.  VERPLANCK. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant,  in  the  Orange 
County  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Colonel  Ellis).  Served  in  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac. 

51.  Adjutant  WILLIAM  S.  WATKINS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  November,  1861,  as  Lieutenant  of  Com 
pany  K,  Eleventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  at  Newport 
News,  Va.,  until  July,  1862,  when  his  regiment  was  mustered  out  of  the  ser 
vice.  September  9,  1862,  was  commissioned  as  First  Lieutenant  and  Adju 
tant  of  the  One  Hundred  and  Seventy-Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volun 
teers.  Served  in  the  Department  of  the  Gulf,  and  was  at  the  engagements  at 
Plains  Store,  Donaldsonville,  Port  Hudson,  £c.,  during  the  campaign  under 
Banks.  Resigned,  on  the  consolidation  of  his  regiment,  March  11,  1864. 

52.  Captain  GEORGE  R.  WHEATON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  a  Captain  in  one  of  the  New  York 
Metropolitan  Regiments.  Served  in  the  Department  of  the  Gulf,  Louisiana, 
and  was  discharged  with  his  regiment. 

53.  Surgeon  JAMES  M.  WILS.ON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Acting  Assistant  Surgeon  in  the 
navy.  Served  under  Admiral  Porter.  Was  at  the  attack  on  Fort  Fisher.  Is 
now  Assistant  Surgeon  in  the  United  States  Navy. 

54.  Major  ALBERT  H.  WINSLOW. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  4,  1861,  as  Captain  of  Company  A, 
Eighth  Ohio  Volunteers  (mustered  June  22).  Was  promoted  November  25, 
1861.  Served  in  1861  in  West  Virginia  and  the  Shenundoah  Valley.  Octo 
ber  26,  took  part  in  tne  assault  and  capture  of  Romney,  and  on  the  6th  and 
7th  January  in  the  affair  at  Blur's  Gap.  Served  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley 
in  the  spring  of  1862;  was  at  the  battle  of  Winchester,  May  23,  and  in  the 
subsequent  skirmishes ;  was  transferred  to  the  Peninsula,  and  took  part 
in  the  repulse  of  the  enemy  on  the  3d,  4th,  and  5th  of  July.  Was  in  all  the 
subsequent  battles  and  skirmishes  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  in  the  Sec 
ond  Corps,  till  mustered  out,  July  13, 1864,  —  amongst  the  more  important  be 
ing  Winchester,  Antietam,  Frederioksburg,  Chancellorsville,  (Gettysburg,  Mine 
Run.  Cedar  Run,  Bristow  Station,  Wilderness,  Brock's  Cross-Roads,  The  Po, 
North  Anna,  Spottsylvania,  Cold  Harbor,  and  several  of  the  battles  before 
Petersburg.  Was  constantly  with  his  regiment  in  the  above-mentioned  battles 
and  campaigns  ;  had  command  of  it  much  of  the  time,  and  was  in  entire  com 
mand  of  it  from  the  battle  of  Spottsylvania  to  the  close  of  its  term.  Was 
frequently  honorably  mentioned. 


ROLL    OF    HONOR.  423 

55.  Captain  DAVID  T.  WRIGHT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant  in  the  Fifty-Seventh 
New  York  Volunteers.  Served  with  his  regiment  in  the  Army  of  the  Poto 
mac,  and  in  the  West  (Ninth  Army  Corps).  Was  promoted  to  be  Captain. 

56.  Brigadier-General  JOHN  C.  WRIGHT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  8,  1861,  as  Captain  of  Company 
A,  Fifty -First  New  York  (Veteran)  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  Major, 
March  14,  1863  ;  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel,  December  30,  1864  ;  to  be  Colonel, 
March,  1865,  and  brevetted  Brigadier-General  of  Volunteers,  March,  1865. 
Took  part  in  the  Burnside  Expedition  to  North  Carolina,  and  partici 
pated  in  the  battles  of  Roanoke  Island  and  Newbern.  With  his  division, 
(Reno's)  joined  Pope  in  Virginia,  and  was  present  in  the  action  of  Kelly's 
Ford,  Rappahannock  Station,  White  Sulphur  Springs,  Bristow  Station,  second 
Manassas,  and  Chantilly.  Under  McClcllan,  took  part  in  the  battles  of  South 
Mountain  and  Antietam  ;  and  under  Burnside,  in  the  battle  of  Fredericksburg. 
Afterwards,  with  Burnside,  proceeded  to  Kentucky,  and  thence,  under  Parke, 
to  reinforce  General  Grant  at  Vicksburg.  After  the  surrender  of  Vicksburg, 
took  part  in  the  Jackson  campaign  under  Sherman.  Subsequently  returned 
with  Parke's  command  to  Kentucky,  where  his  regiment  re-enlisted.  With 
the  Ninth  Corps  joined  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  in  May,  1864,  and  partici 
pated  in  all  the  battles  of  Grant's  campaign,  viz.  :  Wilderness,  Spottsylvania, 
Cold  Harbor,  Jones's  Farm,  Bethesda  Church,  Tolopotomy  Creek,  and  the 
engagements  in  front  of  Petersburg,  up  to  the  battle  of  Poplar  Grove  Spring 
Church.  At  the  latter  action  (September  30,  1864)  was  taken  prisoner. 
After  six  months'  imprisonment  at  Richmond  (Libby  Prison),  Salisbury,  and 
Danville,  was  exchanged,  and  rejoined  his  command  two  days  after  Lee's  sur 
render.  Upon  the  arrival  of  the  Ninth  Corps  at  Alexandria,  was  assigned  to 
the  command  of  Camp  Anger,  where  he  remained  until  his  muster  out,  August 
4,  1865.  Was  slightly  wounded  at  Antietam,  Fredericksburg,  and  Petersburg. 
At  various  times  performed  the  duties  of  Assistant  Adjutant-General,  Assist 
ant  Inspector-General,  Provost-Marshal,  and  Assistant  Engineer  on  General 
Burnside's  staff,  and  superintended  the  erection  of  the  earthworks  on  the 
Ninth  Corps  front  at  Petersburg. 

57.  Captain  WILLIAM  E.  VAN  WYCK. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  29,  1862,  as  Captain  Company 
F,  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Joined 
the  Banks  Expedition  to  Louisiana.  Took  part  in  the  first  attempt  on  Port 
Hudson,  March,  1862,  and  in  the  battle  at  Irish  Bend,  Louisiana,  April  14, 
1863.  Was  on  provost  duty  in  Brashear  City,  on  election  duty  in  New  York 
(November,  1864),  and  received  honorable  mention  by  General  Butler,  and 
was  with  Sherman  at  Goldshoro'.  Was  acting  Aid  on  brigade  staff,  June, 
18R5.  Commanded  the  regiment  for  a  short  time.  Mustered  out,  with  his 
regiment,  August  2,  1865. 


424  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

FOURTH   COMPANY   (D). 

1.  Brigadier-General  WILLIAM  B.  BARTON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861  as  Major  in  the  Forty-Seventh 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  and  was  promoted  through  all  the  grades 
to  be  Brigadier-General.  Served  in  the  Department  of  the  South. 

2.  Lieutenant  HENRY  C.  BELPEN. 
3.  Lieutenant  ALBERT  C.  BURDICK. 

4.  Lieutenant  JOSEPH  CANTRELL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  February  26,  1863,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  the  Third  Regiment,  United  States  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be  First 
Lieutenant  in  the  Eighth  Regiment,  Corps  d'Afdque,  December  15,  1863. 
Was  stationed  at  Port  Hudson  and  Baton  Rouge,  Louisiana,  and  was  on  dutv 
at  Port  Hudson  for  a  short  time  during  the  siege.  Was  honorably  discharged 
February  15,  1864. 

5.  Colonel  ALFORD  B.  CHAPMAN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861  as  Captain  in  the  Fifty-Seventh 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac.  Was 
in  all  the  battles  of  the  Peninsular  campaign,  and  those  in  Northern  Virginia 
and  Maryland,  in  1862.  Was  severely  wounded  at  Fredericksburg,  under 
Burnside,  while  in  command  of  his  regiment,  and  protecting  the  pontoon 
bridge  on  the  Rappahannock.  Promoted  to  be  Colonel,  and  served  continu 
ously  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  through  all  its  marches  and  battles,  until 
the  battle  of  the  Wilderness  in  May,  1864,  where  he  was  killed,  while  in  com 
mand  of  the  division  skirmish  line. 

6.  Ensign  WALTER  COOPER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1862  as  Captain's  Clerk  on  gunboat 
Mandilla.  Was  promoted  to  be  Ensign  for  gallantry  in  an  engagement  on 
the  Mississippi  River.  Was  captured  and  confined  in  Libby  Prison.  Was 
detailed  as  Secretary  to  Admiral  Dahlgren  at  Charleston.  Remained  in  the 
service  until  the  close  of  the  war. 

7.  Captain  GEORGE  A.  CROCKER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  7,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  Company  E,  Fifth  Cavalry  (Regular  Army).  September  11,  1861,  was 
promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant.  October  11,  1861,  was  made  Adjutant  of 
the  Sixth  Cavalry.  June  27,  1862,  was  promoted  to  be  Captain  of  Company 
A.  Served  as  Aid  on  the  staff  of  General  Keyes,  in  the  Fourth  Army  Corps. 
Served  also  on  the  staff  of  General  Sickles,  and  that  of  General  Pleasanton. 
Served  as  Aid  to  General  Buford,  and  was  A.  I.  G.  of  First  Cavalry  Division, 
Army  of  the  Potomac.  Was  captured  at  Brandy  Station,  October  11,  1863, 
and  exchanged  at  Wilmington,  North  Carolina,  March  1,  1865.  Was  hon 
orably  discharged  May  15,  1865,  at  the  expiration  of  the  war. 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  425 

8.  Lieutenant-Colonel  WILLIAM  H.  CROCKER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  12,  1861,  as  Captain  in  the  Sixth 
Regiment,  New  York  Cavalry.  Was  successively  promoted  to  be  Third, 
Second,  and  Senior  Major,  and  Lieutenant-Colonel.  Served  one  year  on  the 
staff  of  Major-General  Pleasanton,  commanding  the  cavalry  of  the  Army  of 
the  Potomac,  as  Assistant  Inspector-General.  He  was  relieved  from  this  duty 
at  his  own  request,  to  take  command  of  his  regiment,  which  he  retained  until 
January  1,  1865,  when  he  resigned,  having  commanded  his  regiment  in  several 
engagements,  and  been  honorably  mentioned. 

9.  Lieutenant  WILLIAM  E.  FISKE. 

10.  Captain  HENRY  J.  FOSTER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  September,  1862,  as  Adjutant  of  the 
One  Hundred  and  Thirty-Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served 
throughout  the  Teche  and  Port  Hudson  campaigns,  and  was  wounded  at  the 
fight  before  Port  Hudson,  May  27,  1863.  Served  on  the  staffs  of  Generals 
Banks  and  Bowcn.  Was  appointed  by  General  Banks  Provost-Marshal  of 
the  Parish  of  La  Fourche,  Louisiana,  the  largest  and  wealthiest  in  the  State, 
except  Orleans.  Was  promoted  to  be  Captain,  and  resigned  in  September,  1864. 

11.  Lieutenant  S.  F.  B.  GILLESPIE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  5,  1864,  as  a  private  in  Com 
pany  B,  Eightieth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Colonel  Hardenburgh). 
Promoted  to  be  Sec-ond  Lieutenant,  Company  I,  December  1,  1864,  and  de 
tailed  as  Assistant  Provost-Marshal  of  prisonei-s  at  City  Point,  under  General 
Patrick.  April  15,  1865,  was  put  in  command  of  the  prisoners  confined  in 
Castle  Thunder  at  Richmond.  In  June,  1865,  was  detailed  as  Assistant  Com 
mandant  of  City  Prisons  at  Richmond,  and  Assistant  Provost-Marshal  on  the 
staff  of  General  Ordway,  Was  mustered  out  with  his  regiment,  February  12, 
1866. 

12.  Sergeant  Louis  GULAGER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  private  in  the  Seventeenth  Infantry 
(Regular  Army).  Served  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  and  in  Texas  till  the 
close  of  the  war.  Was  promoted  to  be  Sergeant. 

13.  Brigadier-General  WILLIAM  GURNET. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861  as  Captain  in  the  Sixty-Fifth 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  Avith  the  Army  of  the  Potomac 
through  the  Peninsular  campaign  of  1862.  In  September,  1862,  was  pro 
moted  to  be  Colonel  of  the  One  Hundred  and  Twenty-Seventh  Regiment,  New 
York  Volunteers.  Served  at  Norfolk  ;  served  with  the  Army  of  the  Potomac 
in  1863,  after  Gettysburg,  and  in  the  Department  of  the  South,  at  Charleston 
Harbor.  Was  wounded  at  Pocotaligo  Bridge.  Was  put  in  command  of  the 
city  of  Charleston  after  its  capture,  and  was  promoted  to  be  Brigadier-General. 


426  HISTORY    OF    THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

14.  Captain  EDWARD  A.  HARRISON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  May,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  in  the 
Seventy -fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Fifth  Excelsior).  Was 
promoted,  March,  1862,  to  be  Captain  of  Company  H.  Served  with  the  Ex 
celsior  Brigade  in  Lower  Maryland,  participating  in  Graham's  Aquia  Creek 
raid  and  Sickles's  Dumfries  raid.  Took  part  in  the  Peninsular  campaign,  was 
at  the  siege  of  Yorktown,  and  thereafter  in  all  the  battles  in  which  Hooker's 
division  was  engaged,  from  Williamsburg  to  Bristow  Station.  At  Williams- 
burg  he  behaved  with  great  gallantry,  and  narrowly  escaped,  being  shot 
through  his  forage-cap,  the  bullet  grazing  the  skull,  and  severing  the  hair  in 
its  course.  At  Bristow  Station,  in  August,  1862,  he  lost  his  life,  being  shot 
dead  at  the  head  of  his  company.  A  brother-officer  writes  of  him  :  "  He  was 
regarded  by  his  comrades  as  one  of  the  bravest  of  the  brave.  His  company 
loved  him  as  a  father.  He  was  courteous,  he  was  generous  to  a  fault,  and 
would  divide  his  last  dollar  with  a  comrade.  He  was  a  true  friend.  May  his 
memory  be  ever  green  in  the  records  of  the  Fourth  Company,  for  the  Seventh 
Regiment  lost  in  him  one  of  its  noblest  sons." 

15.  Lieutenant  CHARLES  R.  HICKOX. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  the  Fifth  Artillery  (Regular  Army), 
and  served  two  years  as  First  Lieutenant  in  the  Fifth  Artillery,  with  the  Army 
of  the  Potomac. 

16.  Adjutant  LEONARD  HAY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Second  Lieutenant  in  the  Ninth 
Infantry  (Regular  Army).  Was  stationed  in  California,  with  his  regiment, 
during  the  war.  Was  promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant  and  Adjutant.  Is 
still  in  the  Regular  Army. 

17.  Sergeant-Major  WILLIAM  A.  JACKSON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Sergeant  in  the  howitzer  battery  at 
tached  to  the  Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  Militia,  afterwards  the  Sixth  New 
York  Battery.  Served  during  the  war  in  Army  of  the  Potomac.  Was  pro 
moted  to  be  Sergeant-Major. 

18.  Sergeant  JOHN  JARVIS. 

19.  Lieutenant-Colonel  EDWARD  H.  LITTLE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  18,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  in 
the  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States  Chasseurs). 
Promoted  to  be  Captain,  June  1,  1862,  at  Fair  Oaks.  Promoted  to  be  Major, 
September  20,  1862.  Promoted  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel,  March,  1865.  Was 
on  duty  with  his  regiment  throughout  the  war  in  the  Peninsular  campaign 
(taking  part  in  the  siege  of  Yorktown  and  the  battles  of  Seven  Pines,  Fair 
Oaks,  Charles  City  Cross-Roads,  and  Malvern  Hill),  and  in  the  Maryland 
campaign  of  1862.  Served  at  Suffolk  and  on  the  Peninsula  in  1863,  under 
Generals  Peck,  Dix,  and  Keyes,  and  in  August,  1863,  in  the  Department 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  427 

of  the  South,  under  Gillmore.  Was  mustered  out,  with  his  regiment,  July 
17,  1865. 

20.  Captain  JOHN  L.  LITTLE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant  and  Adjutant  in  the 
One  Hundred  and  Twenty-Seventh,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  with  that 
regiment  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  and  in  the  Department  of  the  South. 
Was  promoted  to  be  Captain. 

21.  Lieutenant  A.  V.  B.  LOCKROW. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant  in  the  Fourteenth  Regi 
ment,  New  York  Heavy  Artillery.  Stationed  in  the  fortifications  near  Wash 
ington. 

22.  Colonel  JAMES  E.  MALLON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant  and  Adjutant  of  the 
Fortieth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  the  Army  of  the  Poto 
mac.  Acted  as  Provost-Marshal  successively  on  the  staffs  of  Generals  Ham 
ilton,  Kearny,  and  Sedgwick.  Was  promoted  to  be  Colonel  of  the  Forty- 
Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  and  was  killed  at  Bristow  Station, 
while  in  command  of  the  brigade  of  which  his  regiment  formed  part,  on  the 
Uth  of  October,  1863. 

23.  Lieutenant-Colonel  ALEXANDER  S.  MARSHALL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  June,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  and 

Adjutant  in  the Regiment  of  West  Virginia  Volunteers.     Served  through 

Rosecrans's  campaign  in  West  Virginia,  and  afterwards  with  Lander  and 
Shields  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley.  Served  through  the  Peninsular  campaign, 
through  Pope's  campaign  in  Northern  Virginia,  at  South  Mountain,  Antietam, 
and  the  first  Fredericksburg.  In  1863  and  1864  served  at  the  West,  under 
Sherman,  and  was  mustered  out  in  July,  1865,  at  Washington,  with  Sherman's 
army.  Was  promoted  through  the  successive  grades  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel. 

24.  Lieutenant  A.  C.  MERRITT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant,  and  served  in  the  Signal 
Corps  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac. 

25.  Lieutenant  AARON  J.  MIXSELL. 

26.  Lieutenant  JOHN  E.  MOIES. 

Entered    the    United    States    service    as    Sergeant    in  Regiment   of 

Rhode  Island  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be  Lieutenant  in  Corps  d'Afrique. 
Served  in  Louisiana,  and  died  at  New  Orleans  of  disease  contracted  in  the 
service. 

27.  Lieutenant-Colonel  SAMUEL  W.  MCPHERSON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  May,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant  of  the 
Fifty-Third  New  York  Volunteers.  In  September,  1862,  he  was  mustered 
out,  regiment  being  consolidated.  Commissioned  First  Lieutenant  of  One 


428  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

Hundred  and  Seventy-Fourth  "New  York  Volunteers,  in  October,  1862.  Went 
in  the  Banks  Expedition  to  Louisiana,  and  took  part  in  the  engagement  at 
Bayou  Saras  and  the  siege  of  Port  Hudson.  Resigned  in  consequence  of  dis 
ease  contracted  in  the  service.  In  September,  1863,  was  commissioned  First 
Lieutenant  and  Adjutant  of  the  Twenty-Fifth  New  York  Cavalry ;  Captain, 
March,  1864;  Major,  July,  1864;  and  was  brevetted  Lieutenant-Colonel  in 
1865,  for  gallant  and  meritorious  service  during  the  war. 

Served  in  Virginia,  under  Sheridan,  in  1864  and  1865,  until  the  close  of  the 
war.  Took  part  in  the  cavalry  engagements  at  Ashland,  Hanover  Court- 
House  Landing,  June  3,  1864;  Jones  Bridge,  Charles  City  Cross-Roads,  and 
White-House  Landing;  Halltovvn  and  Smithfield  during  Early's  raid  ;  and  in 
the  action  in  front  of  Washington,  July  11,  1864.  His  regiment  charged  the 
buildings  occupied  by  Early's  sharpshooters,  and  cleared  and  burned  them,  to 
give  range  to  Fort  Stevens.  Was  mustered  out  with  his  regiment  in  July,  1865. 

28.  Lieutenant  CHARLES  J.  MURPHY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  June,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  and 
Quartermaster  of  the  Thirty-Eighth  New  York  Volunteers.  Took  part  in  the 
first  battle  of  Bull  Run,  serving  in  the  ranks  with  a  musket,  and  was  specially 
noticed  for  gallantry  by  his  superior  officers.  When  the  army  retreated,  lib 
refused  to  leave,  and  remained,  dressing  the  wounds  of  the  wounded  in  his  own 
and  other  regiments,  and  was  captured,  sent  to  Richmond,  and  thrust  into 
prison.  He  devoted  his  whole  time  to  caring  for  the  wounded  there,  until 
September,  1861,  when  he,  with  Colonels  Ray  nor  and  Hurd,  effected  the  daring 
escape  famous  at  that  time  and  since,  and  crossed  Virginia  alone  to  our  lines. 
All  the  commissioned  and  non-commissioned  officers  of  his  regiment  unite  in 
a  document,  praising,  in  the  highest  terms,  his  "  courage,  humanity,  and  self- 
sacrifice."  Six  of  the  surgeons  at  Sudley  Church  Hospital,  in  a  public  letter, 
pronounced  his  devotion  and  activity  at  Bull  Run  "  greater  than  that  of  any  other 
five  men."  General  Shields  sent  word  to  the  President  that  Lieutenant  Murphy 
had,  "  by  his  noble-hearted  conduct  as  a  prisoner,  in  aid  of  the  wounded  troops, 
earned  the  praise  of  the  whole  army."  Whereupon  the  President  wrote :  "  If 
there  be  any  vacancy  of  a  captaincy  in  the  Regular  Army  not  already  promised, 
let  it  be  given  to  Charles  J.  Murphy."  With  this  prospect,  Lieutenant  Murphy 
resigned  his  commission  in  his  regiment.  While  awaiting  the  commission  so 
indicated  he  went  as  a  volunteer  to  the  Peninsula,  and  eared  for  hundreds  of 
wounded,  at  his  own  expense,  through  the  severe  and  trying  campaign.  He 
did  service  to  the  wounded  on  many  fields  thereafter,  without  rank  or  pay,  and 
was  mentioned  in  public  documents  in  the  highest  terms,  by  many  officers  and 
men  of  the  Union  Army.  Surgeon  Dunstcr  wrote  :  "  His  services  so  freely 
rendered,  in  a  time  of  the  direst  confusion  and  distress,  were  of  great  value, 
and  have  received  the  grateful  thanks  of  both  the  men  he  helped  to  care  for 
and  the  officers  he  so  nobly  assisted."  A  soldier  communicates  a  brief  memo 
randum,  as  follows :  "  We  were  strangers,  and  he  took  us  in ;  naked,  and  he 
clothed  us ;  an  hungered,  and  he  gave  us  food." 


ROLL   OF    HONOR.  429 

29.  Lieutenant  JOSEPH  NEUSTAEDTER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  October,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant  and 
Quartermaster  of  the  Eighth  New  York  Volunteers.  His  regiment  was  mostly 
on  picket  duty  during  the  winter.  In  January,  1863,  he  was  surprised  and 
captured,  while  riding  with  an  orderly,  by  a  body  of  Stuart's  cavalry,  and  sent 
to  Libby  Prison,  where  he  was  confined  till  May.  Was  then  sent  to  Salisbury, 
and  remained  till  August,  when  he  was  exchanged.  Resigned,  November, 
1863,  his  health  being  impaired  by  prison  hardships.  "  This  was  the  second 
time  I  had  enjoyed  Richmond  hospitality;  the  first  was  as  a  member  of  the 
Seventh  Regiment  in  the  Monroe  Excursion  of  1858." 

30.  Brigadier-General  ROBERT  NUGENT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861  as  Lieutenant-Colonel  of  the 
Sixty-Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  Militia,  for  three  months'  service ;  was 
commissioned  Captain  in  the  Sixteenth  Infantry  (Regular  Army) ;  served  with 
distinction  through  the  war,  and  was  brevetted  Brigadier-General. 

31.  Sergeant-Major  EDWARD  J.  OLSSEN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  8th  November,  1863,  as  private  in  the 
Seventeenth  Infantry  (Regular  Army),  and  was  promoted  to  be  Sergeant- 
Major  of  the  regiment,  April  7,  1864;  served  in  Ayres's  division  of  the 
Fifth  Corps ;  took  part  in  the  battles  of  June  17  and  18  before  Petersburg,  and 
was  in  the  breastworks  with  his  regiment  thereafter  till  June  29,  supporting 
Battery  D  of  the  Fifth  Artillery,  constantly  under  fire;  on  the  18th,  19th, 
and  21st  of  August  took  part  in  the  battles  on  the  Weldon  Road,  his  brigade 
(Hayes's) opening  the  battle  and  remaining  till  the  close,  on  the  21st;  at 
Peeble's  Farm  (or  Poplar  Grove  Church)  his  regiment  was  so  badly  cut  up 
that  General  Warren  ordered  it,  at  the  close  of  the  battle,  into  the  Corps 
Provost  Guard)  there  being  but  thirty-three  men  left  of  the  ninety-nine  (to 
which  the  regiment  had  previously  been  reduced)  that  went  into  action.  Is 
still  on  duty  with  his  regiment,  at  last  accounts,  in  Texas. 

32.  Major  MORTIMER  B.  OWEN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  4, 1861,  as  Socond  Lieutenant, 
Company  G,  Fifty-Seventh  Pennsylvania  Volunteers ;  was  promoted  to  be 
Captain,  December  4,  1861  ;  served  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  under  Gen 
erals  McClellan,  Hooker,  Burnside,  and  Meadc  ;  participated  in  the  siege  of 
Yorktown,  the  battles  of  West  Point,  Fair  Oaks,  Savage  Station,  Charles 
City  Cross-Roads,  Malvern  Hill,  Harrison's  Landing,  and  second  Bull  Run  ; 
was  twice  wounded  ;  was  taken  prisoner  at  second  Bull  Run  ;  wa<  brevetted 
Major,  March  17,  1863  ;  was  mustered  out  with  his  regiment,  October  9, 1863. 

33.  Lieutenant  WILLIAM  H.  ROOME. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant ;  served  in  the  Department 
of  the  South. 

34.  Lieutenant-Colonel  GEORGE  SANGSTER. 


430  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

35.  Captain  J.  DANIEL  SCHULLER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  November  15,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  the  Eighty-Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers ;  promoted  to  be 
First  Lieutenant,  April  19,  1862  ;  served  in  the  Third  Corps  under  Kearny, 
and  took  part  in  all  the  battles  of  the  Peninsular  campaign ;  was  wounded  in 
the  hand  in  one  of  the  Seven  Days'  Battles  ;  was  engaged  at  the  second  Bull 
Run,  and  was  there  captured  and  sent  to  Libby  Prison  ;  was  recommended  for 
promotion  after  the  Seven  Days'  Battles,  and  was  brevetted  Captain,  May  18, 
1866  ;  was  honorably  discharged  at  end  of  service. 

36.  Major  FRANK  K.  SMITH. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the  One -Hundred  and 
Twenty-Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers ;  served  in  the  Army 
of  the  Potomac  and  in  Department  of  the  South;  was  wounded  at  Pocotaligo 
Bridge ;  was  promoted  to  be  Major,  and  mustered  out  with  his  regiment  at  the 
close  of  the  war  ;  served  on  the  staffs  of  Generals  Hatch  and  Schemmelpfennig, 
commanding  in  Charleston  Harbor. 

37.  Lieutenant  SAMUEL  J.  SMITH. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant  in  one  of  the  New  York 
Metropolitan  Regiments  ;  was  wounded  at  Port  Hudson. 

38.  Sergeant  ARCHIBALD  A.  SNODGRASS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Sergeant  in  the  Sixth  New  York  Bat 
tery  ;  discharged  on  account  of  disability,  from  disease  contracted  in  the  Penin 
sular  campaign,  in  1862, 

39.  Colonel  Z.  L.  SPATJLDING. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  in  1861,  as  Major  in  the  Twenty-Seventh 
Regiment,  Ohio  Volunteers ;  served  under  Generals  Grant,  Rosecrans,'  and 
Sherman  in  the  armies  of  the  West ;  was  promoted  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel 
and  Colonel,  and  commanded  a  regiment  at  Vicksburg. 

40.  Captnin  SAMUEL  H.  STARR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the  Fourth  Company,  Third 
Regiment,  Missouri  Volunteers  ;  served  in  the  Army  of  the  West ;  died  from 
disease  contracted  at  the  siege  of  Vicksburg. 

41.  Captain  PETER  B.  STEEL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant  in Regiment 

New  York  Volunteers  (Van  Wyck  Legion)  ;  promoted  to  be  Captain  ;  served 
in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  and  Department  of  the  South. 

42.  Captain  JOSEPH  B.  STEVENSON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  one  of  the  New  York  Metropolitan 
Regiments  ;  served  also  in  the  navy. 


ROLL   OF  HONOR.  431 

FIFTH   COMPANY    (E). 

1.  Lieutenant-Colonel  THOMAS  J.  ADDIS. 
Was  wounded,  and  died  in  the  service. 

2.  Captain  JAMES  BELL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  in  1861,  as  a  private  in  the  First  Regi 
ment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Colonel  Allen)  ;  was  promoted  through  all  the 
grades,  and  was  mustered  out  with  the  regiment,  in  18G3,  as  Captain  ;  served 
in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  and  was  in  its  various  engagements  previous  to 
June,  1863  ;  rendered  distinguished  service,  also,  as  a  scout. 

3.  Captain  E.  I).  BENEDICT. 
Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  of  cavalry ;  served  in  Texas. 

4.  Captain  GEORGE  W.  BISSELL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the  Ninetieth  Regiment, 
New  York  Volunteers  ;  served  in  the  Department  of  the  South;  died  in  1864, 
from  disease  contracted  in  the  service. 

5.  Sergeant  JOHN  BOLTON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May,  1861,  as  private  in  the  Seventy- 
Ninth  Regiment  (Highlanders),  New  York  Volunteers;  was  promoted  to  be 
First  Sergeant  in  1863  ;  served  with  his  regiment  in  Virginia,  South  Carolina, 
Kentucky,  Mississippi,  East  Tennessee,  and  Maryland,  and  took  part  in  the 
battles  of  first  Bull  Run,  Lewinsville,  Port  Royal,  Port  Royal  Ferry  (Jan 
uary  1,  1862),  Secessionville,  James  Island,  Cedar  Mountain,  Kelly's  Ford, 
Bull  Run  number  two,  Chantilly,  South  Mountain,  Antietam,  Fredericksburg, 
Vicksburg,  Jackson,  Blue  Springs  (Tennessee),  Fort  Sanders,  Knoxville,  Wil 
derness,  and  Spottsylvania ;  was  mustered  out  with  his  regiment,  May,  1864. 

6.  Captain  WILLIAM  A.  BRUSLE,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  18,  1863,  as  Captain,  Company  C, 
Thirteenth  New  York  Cavalry ;  transferred,  as  Adjutant,  to  Twenty-Fifth 
New  York  Cavalry,  March  23,  1864;  promoted  to  be  Captain,  Company  H, 
Twenty-Fifth  New  York  Cavalry,  December  21,  1864  ;  served  in  Virginia  and 
Maryland  under  Sheridan  ;  was  present  at  the  engagements  of  White  House 
Landing,  Fort  Stevens,  Halltown,  Opequan  Creek,  Winchester,  Luray,  Fort 
Republic,  Woodstock,  New  Town,  Cedar  Creek,  Madison  Court-House, 
Waynesboro',  and  capture  of  Richmond  ;  mustered  out  with  his  regiment, 
July  7,  1865. 

7.  Purser  HENRY  C.  BRAISTED. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Purser  in  the  United  States  Navy,  and 
was  attached  to  the  United  States  steamer  Cossack,  plying  around  Jackson 
ville,  Fernandina,  Beaufort,  St.  Helena,  Fort  Pulaski,  Fort  Monroe,  &c. ; 
length  of  service,  fourteen  months. 


432  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

8.  Captain  C.  R.  CARGILL. 
9.  Captain  WILLIAM  COLES. 
10.  Lieutenant  F.  H.  CORRIE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  28,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  the  United  States  Marine  Corps  ;  promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant,  Novem 
ber  25,  1861  ;  served  in  the  marine  battalion  at  Port  Royal  in  1861  and  1862, 
and  took  part  in  the  naval  assault  on  Fernandina,  Florida,  March,  1862.  At 
Fort  Fisher,  in  December,  1864,  and  January,  1865,  commanded  the  marine 
guard  of  the  Powhatan,  flag-ship  of  the  Third  Division,  the  marines  in  both 
engagements  manning  a  battery  of  nine-inch  guns ;  landed  on  the  beach  below 
Fort  Fisher,  January  16,  1865,  and  commanded  a  company  of  marines  in  the 
assault  of  that  date ;  was  favorably  mentioned  by  Commodore  Schenck,  di 
vision  commander,  in  his  report  of  the  engagement.  In  March,  1865,  while  the 
Powhatan  was  "  repairing  damages  "  sustained  at  Fort  Fisher,  he  obtained  a 
short  leave  of  absence,  went  to  the  front  at  Petersburg  and  Richmond,  and 
volunteered  as  Aidc-de-Camp  to  General  Miles,  commanding  First  Division, 
Second  Corps.  For  his  services  in  the  severe  battle  of  the  25th  March  he  was 
publicly  thanked  on  the  field  by  General  Miles,  who  next  day  wrote  as  fol 
lows  :  "  Sir,  permit  me  to  acknowledge  the  service  rendered  by  you  in  the 
battle  of  the  25th.  Acting  entirely  in  a  volunteer  capacity  upon  my  staff,  your 
coolness  and  gallant  bearing  under  the  severest  fire  were  calculated  to  give  en 
couragement  to  the  troops,  while  your  prompt  transmittal  of  orders  proved 
you  to  be  a  most  efficient  aidc-de-carnp.  Please  accept  my  thanks  for  the  val 
uable  assistance  you  afforded  me  yesterday  in  an  engagement  which,  being  in 
an  entirely  different  arm  of  the  service  from  your  own,  was  marked  by  unusual 
spirit  and  seventy." 

11.  Lieutenant  FREDERICK  CREIGHTON,  JR. 

12.  Lieutenant  ROBERT  EAGAN. 

13.  Captain  EDWARD  S.  EARLE. 
14.  Major  FRANCIS  S.  EARLE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  June  20,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  and 
Adjutant  of  the  Fourth  Regiment,  Michigan  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be 
Major  and  Assistant  Adjutant-General  on  Genei'al  Morell's  staff,  September 
10,  1862.  Took  part,  as  Adjutant,  in  all  the  campaigns  of  the  Armv  of  the 
Potomac,  from  the  first  Bull  Run  to  Antietam,  being  present  at  the  following 
battles  :  Fh*st  Bull  Run,  Yorktown,  New  Bridge  (on  the  Chickahominy),  Han 
over  Court-House,  Mcchanicsville,  Gaines's  Mills,  Malvern  Hill,  second  Bull 
Run,  and  Antietam.  Was  wounded  in  the  knee  at  Malvern  In  the  mem 
orable  "  Seven  Days,"  in  the  Second  Brigade,  First  Division,  Sixth  Corps,  to 
which  he  belonged,  every  regimental  commanding  officer  was  killed  (two  at 
Gaines's  Mills  and  two  at  Malvern),  and  the  rank  and  file  suffered  propor 
tionately.  After  Antietam,  General  Morell  was  assigned  to  the  Upper  Poto 
mac,  where  Major  Earle  served  till  honorably  discharged,  May  18,  1863. 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  433 

15.  Engineer  FREDERICK  ECKEL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July,  1861,  as  an  Acting  Second  Assist 
ant  Engineer  on  board  the  United  States  steamer  Saranac.  Served  in  the 
Pacific  Squadron  under  Admiral  Bell.  Resigned  at  San  Francisco,  after  two 
years'  service. 

16.  Adjutant  FRANK  C.  FILLET. 

17.  Lieutenant-Colonel  Louis  FITZGERALD. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  1,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant,  Com 
pany  C,  Eleventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Ellsworth  Zouaves).  Pro 
moted  to  be  Captain  August  1,  1861,  for  gallantry  at  the  first  battle  of 
Bull  Run,  as  stated  in  orders.  After  disbandment  of  the  Eleventh  New  York 
Volunteers,  was  commissioned  First  Lieutenant,  Company  K,  Fortieth  Regi 
ment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Mozart),  January  24,  1862.  March,  1862, 
"  officer  of  the  trenches,"  under  Major-General  Hamilton,  at  siege  of  York- 
town.  Also  served,  on  the  Peninsula,  as  Provost-Marshal,  First  Division, 
Third  Corps,  and  as  Aide-de  Camp  to  General  Kearny.  June  25,  1862,  pro 
moted  to  be  Captain,  Fortieth  New  York  Volunteers,  to  rank  from  May  26, 
1862,  "  for  gallantry  in  the  battle  of  Fair  Oaks,"  as  stated  in  orders  ;  December 
4,1862,  Aide-de-Camp  to  General  D.  B.  Birncy  ;  December  22,  1862,  Aide- 
de-Camp  to  General  Foster,  commanding  in  North  Carolina ;  October  26, 
1864,  Major,  First  Regiment,  Missouri  Volunteers;  February  17,1866,  pro 
moted  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel ;  August  II,  1866,  brevetted  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  (National  Guard  State  New  York)  "  for  faithful  and  meritorious  ser 
vices  "  during  the  war.  Served  in  Third  Corps  ;  in  Eighteenth  Corps  (North 
Carolina  and  at  Fort  Monroe)  ;  in  Tenth  Corps  (at  head-quarters  in  South 
Carolina)  ;  in  the  Army  of  the  Ohio  as  Aidc-de-Camp  successively  to  the 
major-generals  commanding  the  Ninth  Corps,  the  Twenty-Third  Corps,  the 
Fourth  Corps,  and  the  Cavalry  Corps  ;  in  Eastern  Tennessee  with  above  com 
mand  and  in  Vicksburg,  Mississippi,  under  General  Dana.  Was  actively 
engaged  in  the  battles  of  first  Bull  Run,  Yorktown,  Peach  Orchard,  Wil- 
liamsburg,  Seven  Pines,  Fair  Oaks,  Monocacy,  Fredericksburg,  Little  Wash 
ington,  North  Carolina;  second  Newbern,  Knoxville,  Dandridge  ;  last  attack 
on  Charleston  and  Stono  Inlet;  was  wounded  in  ankle  at  first  Bull  Run;  in 
knee  at  Williamsburg,  and  in  hip  at  Fair  Oaks  ;  was  blown  up  by  torpedoes 
in  gunboat  Hiram  Barney  on  James  River,  Virginia.  Honorably  discharged 
February  27,  1865. 

18.  Sergeant  AUGUSTUS  FLEET. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861  as  First  Sergeant  in Regi 
ment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Took  part  in  the  Peninsular  campaign  with 
the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  and  was  killed  at  Fair  Onks,  and  buried  on  the 
field. 

19.  Major  ALFRED  FOOTE. 

Entered  the  United  States  States  service,  May  14,  1861,  as  First  Lieuten 
ant  in  the  Fourteenth  Infantry  (Regular  Army).  Promoted  to  be  Captain 

28 


434  msTORY  OF  THE  SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

January  18,  1865  ;  Brevet  Captain,  August  18,  1865  ;  Brevet  Major,  Novem 
ber  5,  1865.  Served  in  the  Fifth  Corps,  Army  of  the  Potomac,  under  Gen 
erals  Meade,  Sykes,  Ayres,  Hayes,  Winthrop.  Took  part  in  the  battles  at 
Falmouth,  Chancellorsville,  those  of  the  Burnside  Expedition,  the  Gettysburg 
campaign,  Petersburg  and  Weldon  Railroad;  on  the  18th  of  June,  1864,  be 
fore  Petersburg,  was  wounded  in  the  left  leg  ;  on  the  18th  of  August,  1864,  on 
the  Weldon  Railroad,  was  wounded  through  the  right  shoulder,  with  resec 
tion  of  five  inches  of  the  bone  from  the  shoulder  down.  Was  retired  (No 
vember  5,  1866)  from  active  service  (first-class),  having  partially  lost  the  use 
of  his  left  leg  and  almost  entirely  the  use  of  his  right  arm.  Has  mustered  in 
and  out,  in  the  States  of  New  York  and  Louisiana,  about  eighty  thousand 
men. 

20.  Adjutant  CHARLES  J.  FROTHINGHAM. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant  and  Adjutant  in  Con 
necticut  Artillery. 

21.  Captain  F.  GRAIN,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain.  Served  in  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac. 

22.  Lieutenant  LEVI  GROSVENOR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  February  27,  1864,  as  private  in  the 
Tenth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be  Sergeant  in 
April,  1864,  and  to  be  Lieutenant,  January  1,  1865.  Served  through  Grant's 
Virginia  campaign  of  1864  and  1865,  in  the  Second  Corps  (Hancock),  Carr's 
brigade,  Gibbon's  (Second)  division.  Took  part  in  all  the  battles  from  the 
Wilderness  to  Appomattox  Court-House.  Was  shot  in  the  hand  at  Spottsyl- 
vania  Court-House.  Was  mustered  out  with  his  regiment,  at  the  end  of  the 
war,  June  31,  1865. 

23.  Captain  WILLIAM  P.  HALSTED. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  July  20,  1861,  as  Captain  in  the  Sixty- 
Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Became  Senior  Captain,  and  at 
times  was  in  command  of  the  regiment.  Served  in  the  Sixth  Corps,  in  Vir 
ginia  and  Maryland,  and  took  part  in  the  battles  of  Williamsburg,  Seven 
Pines,  Fair  Oaks,  White-Oak  Swamp,  Malvern  Hill,  and  Burnsidc's  Freder- 
icksburg.  Previous  to  the  battle  of  Malvern  Hill  he  had  been  placed  under  ar 
rest,  in  consequence  of  not  taking  command  of  his  company  when  so  ordered, 
his  ground  being  that  he  was  at  the  time  on  the  sick-list,  and  unable  to  per 
form  duty.  When  the  battle  commenced,  feeling  better,  he  succeeded,  with 
three  other  officers,  in  rallying  about  four  hundred  men  belonging  to  different 
regiments.  These  were  formed  in  a  regimental  line,  the  right  company  being 
placed  under  his  command  ;  and  the  regiment  under  that  of  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  Colburn,  of  the  staff  of  Major-General  McClellan.  The  day  after 
the  battle  the  following  order  came  from  the  head-quarters  of  the  Army  : 
"  Captain  William  P.  Halsted  is  released  from  arrest,  and  will  report  for  duty 
with  his  company.  Whatever  his  conduct  may  have  been  heretofore,  his  be 
havior  yesterday  entitles  him  to  not  only  release  from  arrest,  but  to  great  cred- 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  435 

it  for  gallantry  and  efficiency.  By  command  of  Major-General  McClellan, 
A.  V.  Colburn,  Assistant  Adjutant-General."  Was  honorably  discharged, 
March  8,  1863. 

24.  Captain  J.  M.  HAWKINS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as ;  was  Captain  on  Major-General 

Augur's  staff. 

25.  Lieutenant  C.  O.  F.  HAYNES. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the  One  Hundred  and 
Thirty-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  wounded  at  Port  Hudson, 
and  discharged  for  disability. 

26.  Captain  G.  M.  RUSTED. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the  Forty-Seventh  Regi 
ment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  the  Department  of  the  South. 
Afterwards  appointed  Quartermaster  and  stationed  in  New  Orleans. 

27.  Captain  B.  R.  KEEFLER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  December  30,  1861,  as  Captain  Company 
A,  Seventy-Eighth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  Virginia  ;  was 
present  at  the  skirmishes  at  Bolivar  Heights  and  Camp  Hill  (May,  1862),  and 
the  battles  of  Cedar  Mountain,  Rappahannock,  White  Sulphur  Springs. 
Bristow  Station ;  was  acting  as  a  field  officer  much  of  the  time.  Was  honor 
ably  discharged  May  28,  1863,  on  account  of  disease  contracted  in  the  service 
while  in  the  line  of  duty. 

28.  Lieutenant-Colonel  J.  G.  KAPPNER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861.  Served  on  General  Fremont's 
staff  in  Missouri. 

29.  Lieutenant  S.  M.  KELLINGER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  1,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant, 
Company  G,  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (United  States 
Chasseurs).  Served  with  the  regiment  throughout  the  Peninsular  campaign, 
in  all  its  battles  from  Yorktown  to  Malvern.  Had  command  of  his  company 
at  Fair  Oaks.  Resigned  at  Harrison's  Landing,  on  account  of  severe  sickness 
contracted  during  the  campaign.  In  1864  went  to  the  Western  Army,  and 
went  through  the  campaign  from  Chattanooga  to  Atlanta,  being  commissioned 
as  Aid  at  Twentieth  Corps  head-qunrters,  commanded  by  General  Hooker. 
Was  at  the  battles  of  Buzzards'  Roost,  Altoona,  Kenesaw  Mountain,  and  the 
siege  of  Atlanta,  entering  the  latter  city  with  General  Slocum  and  escort.  On 
the  evacuation  of  Atlanta  by  General  Sherman  he  returned  to  Nashville. 

30.  Colonel  W.  E.  KIDDER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  16,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant,  Thir 
teenth  Regiment,  Massachusetts  Volunteers.  Was  brevctted  Colonel,  January 
21,  1863.  Served  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  Sixth  Corps,  General  Sedg- 
wick.  Acted  on  the  staff  of  Colonel  Leonard,  commanding  the  brigade 


436  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

July  1,  1862,  was  wounded  in  the  left  arm  and  hip,  but  did  not  quit  the  field. 
July  3,  1862,  was  captured.  January  12,  1863,  was  exchanged.  Resigned, 
January  30,  1863,  on  account  of  sickness,  contracted  by  long  and  close  con 
finement  in  Libby  Prison. 

31.  Lieutenant  WILLIAM  H.  KINGSLAND. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  2,  1862,  as  Lieutenant  in  the 
One  Hundred  and  Twenty-First  Pennsylvania  Volunteers.  Was  captured  by 
Mosby  near  Fairfax  Court-House.  Was  a  prisoner  eight  months,  being  con 
fined  first  in  Libby  and  then  at  Andersonville,  where  he  died  of  starvation. 

32.  Captain  GEORGE  W.  LEWIS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the  Sixty- First  Regiment, 
New  York  Volunteers.  Died  at  Harrison's  Landing,  Virginia,  from  wounds 
received  in  the  battles  before  Richmond  in  1862. 

33.  Captain    JOHN  S.  LOUD. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  January  3,  1863,  as  First  Lieutenant  in 
the  Twelfth  New  York  Cavalry.  Promoted  to  be  Captain,  November  20, 
1863.  Served  in  North  Carolina  and  Virginia,  under  Generals  Foster,  Ord, 
Schofield,  Cox,  Kilpatrick.  Took  part  in  the  battles  and  expeditions  in  the 
former  State  in  1864,  at  Newborn,  Kingston,  Plymouth,  Little  Washington, 
Tarboro'  raid  (1863),  Greenville,  Jacksonville,  and,  in  1865,  under  Schofield 
and  Cox,  at  Kingston,  Wise's  Forks,  Mosely  Hall,  and  Goldsboro'.  Was  de 
tached  in  command  of  a  squadron  as  escort  to  Generals  Schofield  and  Cox, 
February,  1865.  Mustered  out  in  July,  1865. 

34.  Lieutenant  BENJAMIN  T.  MARTIN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant,  Com. 
pany  E,  Forty-Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Went  with  Sher« 
man's  Expedition  to  Port  Royal,  and  was  engaged  at  Port  Royal  Ferry,  Janu 
ary  1,  1862.  Was  promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant  for  good  conduct  in  that 
affair.  In  March,  1862,  was  detached  as  A.  D.  C.,  on  General  Doubleday's 
staff,  and  served  in  Virginia.  Was  at  the  battles  of  Gainesville,  second  Bull 
Run  (where  his  horse  was  shot),  South  Mountain,  Antietam,  Fredericksburg, 
Chancellorsville,  and  Gettysburg.  Was  mentioned  in  orders  and  in  the  report 
of  every  battle  in  which  the  First  Corps  took  part,  up  to  and  including  Gettys 
burg.  Thence  proceeded  with  Doubleday  to  Washington,  and  was  temporarily 
detailed  as  A.  D.  C.  on  Augur's  staff. 

35.  Lieutenant  S.  E.  L.  MITCHELL. 
36.  Brigadier-General  JOSEPH  J.  MORRISON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  27,  1861,  as  Captain  of  Company 
A,  Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  State  Militia,  and  in  December,  1861,  as  Cap 
tain  of  Battery  B,  Third  Regiment,  New  York  Artillery.  Promoted  to  be 
Colonel  of  the  Sixteenth  New  York  Heavy  Artillery,  December  18,  186.T. 
BJeretted  Brigadier- General,  United  States  Volunteers,  March  13,  1865,  "for 


ROLL   OF  HONOR.  437 

faithful  and  meritorious  services  during  the  war."  Participated  in  the  Burn- 
side  Expedition  to  North  Carolina,  in  the  battles  at  Kingston,  Whitehall,  and 
Goldsboro' ;  in  the  reduction  of  Fort  Sumter,  and  the  captures  of  Fort  Fisher, 
Petersburg,  and  Richmond.  Was  mentioned  in  general  orders  by  General 
Foster,  for  gallantry  at  the  battle  of  Goldsboro'  in  repulsing  with  his  battery 
the  desperate  attack  of  Pettigrew's  brigade.  The  Sixteenth  New  York  Heavy 
Artillery,  raised  through  his  exertions,  was  the  largest  ever  recruited  in  the 
United  States,  numbering  three  thousand  and  thirty-three  men,  of  whom 
twelve  hundred  were  transferred  to  ether  regiments.  Mustered  out  August 
30,  lbG5,  at  the  close  of  the  war. 

37.  Lieutenant  GEORGE  W.  MURRAY. 
38.  Colonel  JAMES  R.  O'BEIRNE. 

39.  Ensign  H.  M.  PATTERSON. 
Served  in  the  United  States  Navy  during  the  war. 

40.  Lieutenant  W.  A.  PRENTISS,  JR. 

41.  Lieutenant  GEORGE  A.  PRICE. 

42.  Captain  THOMAS  J.  ROBERTS. 
43.  Captain  WILLIAM  H.  ROMAINE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  the  One  Hundred  and 
Thirty-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  with  General  Banks 
in  Louisiana,  and  was  at  Port  Hudson  and  in  the  Red  River  Expedition. 

44.  Captain  FRANK  A.  SILVA. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861.  Was  Captain  in  the  First  New 
York  Volunteers.  Was  at  Big  Bethel,  and  served  on  the  Peninsula  until 

1862. 

45.  Major  M.  A.  STEARNS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  April,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant, 
Company  A,  Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be 
First  Lieutenant  and  Adjutant  of  the  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volun 
teers,  August,  1861.  October,  1861,  promoted  to  be  Major  of  the  Second 
Missouri  Cavalry.  Resigned,  from  disability,  January,  1862.  Appointed 
Adjutant,  Second  New  York  Veteran  Cavalry,  October,  1863.  Promoted  to 
be  Captain  in  the  Twenty-Fifth  New  York  Cavalry,  December,  1864.  Ap 
pointed  Second  Lieutenant,  Eighteenth  Infantry  (Regular  Army),  April,  1865. 
Promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant,  July,  1866.  Was  engaged  in  the  battles  of 
Big  Bethel,  Winchester,  and  Leesburg  (Virginia),  Mill  Spring  (Kentucky), 
Lexington,  Pierce's  Mill,  and  Kirksville  (Missouri),  and  Red  River  campaign 
(Louisiana).  Was  wounded  at  Kirksville  and  Pierce's  Mill.  Still  in  the  Regu 
lar  Army. 

46.  Lieutenant  NOAH  B.  STOKELY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant  in  Corps  d'Afrique,  and 
served  with  General  Uhlmann,  in  Louisiana. 


438  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

47.  Lieutenant  HENRY  M.  TIMOLAT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  30,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant  in 
the  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in 
Maryland,  Virginia,  and  Louisiana.  Took  part  in  numerous  skirmishes  in 
Louisiana,  the  storming  of  Port  Hudson,  the  battle  of  Vicksburg,  and  the  second 
battle  of  Winchester  (September  19,  1864),  where  he  was  mortally  wounded, 
receiving  a  bullet  in  his  breast,  during  a  most  gallant  charge  at  the  head 
of  his  company,  of  which  he  had  command  at  that  time.  But  five  survived  out 
of  the  eighteen  men  whom  he  took  into  the  charge. 

On  the  eve  of  battle  he  was  suffering  intensely  with  rheumatism,  and  was 
urged  to  remain  behind,  but  he  would  not.  The  last  that  was  seen  of  him  he 
was  limping  along,  urging  his  men  forward.  During  two  years'  service  he 
never  asked  for  or  accepted  a  furlough.  He  was  son  of  an  officer  who  had 
served  under  Napoleon,  and  left  a  wife  and  three  children.  The  Fifth  Com 
pany  escorted  his  remains  to  Greenwood. 

48.  Lieutenant-Colonel  GEORGE  TUCKER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  December  30,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant, 
Company  A,  Seventy-Eighth  New  York  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  Major 
and  Lieutenant-Colonel,  Corps  d'Afrique,  February  and  March,  1863.  Served 
in  Virginia,  and  was  present  at  the  battles  of  Bolivar  Heights,  Camp  Hill, 
Cedar  Mountain,  Rappahannock,  White  Sulphur  Springs,  Bristow  Station. 
His  service  in  the  Shcnandoah  Valley  was  under  Banks,  Sigel,  and  Pope,  and 
that  in  Eastern  Virginia  under  Geary.  Afterwards  he  served  in  Louisiana, 
during  the  Red  River  campaign,  under  General  Banks.  He  died  of  disease 
contracted  in  the  latter  campaign,  at  New  Orleans,  in  the  summer  of  1865. 

49.  Captain  WILLIAM  H.  UNDERBILL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  April  23,  1861,  as  Captain  of  Company 
G,  in  the  First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  near  Fort  Monroe, 
and  took  part  in  the  battle  at  Big  Bethel,  under  Butler,  June  10,  1861. 
In  August  received  an  honorable  discharge,  on  the  ground  of  the  return, 
by  active  service,  of  physical  disability,  arising  from  an  injury  received  in  the 
Astor  Place  Kiots,  in  1849,  while  on  duty  there  with  his  regiment,  and  from 
severe  varicose  veins,  which  rendered  him  unfit  for  duty  in  the  field. 

50.  Major  PHILO  VOSBURGH. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  November  22, 1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  the  Thirty-Sixth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  and  was  promoted  to 
be  First  Lieutenant,  August  2,  1862.  Served  with  the  Army  of  the  Potomac 
through  all  the  battles  of  the  Peninsular  campaign,  including  Lee's  Mills,  South 
Mills,  Bolton's  Bridge,  Seven  Pines,  Fair  Oaks,  Gaines's  Mills,  White-Oak 
Swamp,  and  Malvern  ;  also  at  Chantilly,  Fairfax  Court-House,  Fredericksburg, 
Marye's  Heights,  Salem  Heights,  and  also  through  the  battles  of  the  Red  River 
campaign  under  Banks.  Was  promoted  for  gallant  conduct  on  the  Peninsula, 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  439 

and  especially  for  capturing  the  colors  of  the  Fourteenth  North  Carolina  Regi 
ment,  at  Malvern,  July  1,  1862,  and  was  complimented  on  the  field  the  same 
day  by  Generals  Couch  and  Abercrombie.  Was  mustered  out  with  his  regiment, 
July  15,  1863.  Was  commissioned  Captain  of  the  Eighty-Fourth  United  States 
Colored  Troops,  October  10,  1863,  and  served  in  Louisiana  (frequently  com 
manding  the  regiment)  till  mustered  out,  August  31,  1865.  Received  a  brevet 
(N.  Y.  S.  N.  G.)  of  Major  for  meritorious  services  during  the  war. 

51.  Captain  F.  E.  WALDRON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain  in  Thirty-First  New  York 
Volunteers.  Served  two  years  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  and  was  in  all  the 
principal  engagements  during  that  period. 

52.  Captain  JAMES  L.  WAUGH. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  1, 1861,  as  Captain  in  Fifth  Regiment, 
New  York  Volunteers  (Duryee's  Zouaves).  Served  at  Fort  Monroe,  Baltimore, 
and  Alexandria.  Was  at  Big  Bethel.  Mustered  out  with  his  regiment,  Jan 
uary  2,  1862. 

53.  Captain  ROBERT  WHEATON. 

54.  Lieutenant  L.  L.  YOUNG. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant  of  artillery.  Served  in  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac.  Was  wounded  and  disabled. 

SIXTH  COMPANY  (F). 

1.  Colonel  ALEXANDER  ANNAN. 

Lieutenant  and  Quartermaster  One  Hundred  and  Third  and  One  Hundred 
and  Twenty-Eighth  Regiments,  New  York  Volunteers.  Captain  Third  Rhode 
Island  Volunteers. 

2.  Captain  HENRY  ARNOLD. 

Captain,  Forty-Seventh  Regiment  New  York  Volunteers,  Company  K. 
Killed  at  the  battle  of  Olustee,  Florida,  February  20,  1863.  He  was  a  brave 
and  efficient  officer. 

3.  Major-General  LEWIS  T.  BARNEY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  January,  1862  (at  the  age  of  seventeen 
years)  as  a  voluntary  Aid  to  General  T.  W.  Sherman,  Department  of  the  South. 
Took  part  in  the  various  reconnoissances  in  South  Carolina  and  Georgia,  and 
in  the  Florida  Expedition  of  Dupont  and  Wright.  October  11,  1862,  was  com 
missioned  First  Lieutenant  Sixty-Eighth  New  York  Volunteers.  Acted  as 
Aid  to  General  Saxton  and  Assistant  Inspectoi'-General  in  the  Tenth  Corps, 
Department  of  the  South.  Was  present  at  the  battles  at  James  and  Morris 
Islands  and  Fort  Wagner.  Was  made  Captain  and  Assistant  Adjutant-Gen 
eral,  and,  March  24,  1864,  was  commissioned  Colonel  of  the  One  Hundred 
and  Eightieth  New  York  Volunteers.  Took  part  in  the  fight  at  Bloody  Bridge 


440  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

(South  Carolina),  and  was  there  wounded.  In  July,  the  One  Hundred  and 
Eightieth  was  consolidated,  and  he  was  commissioned  Colonel  of  the  One  Hun 
dred  and  Sixth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  On  duty  under  Butler  in  the 
New  York  elections,  and  took  part  in  the  battle  of  Cedar  Creek.  In  January, 
1865,  resigned  in  consequence  of  his  injuries  received  at  Bloody  Bridge.  Was 
made  Brigadier-General  by  brevet,  March  13,  1865,  for  gallant  and  meritorious 
services  during  the  war.  At  this  time  he  was  twenty  years  of  age.  Was  bre- 
vetted  Major-General.  Was  frequently  mentioned  and  thanked  in  orders. 

4.  Colonel  CHARLES  G.  BARTLETT. 

Captain,  Twelfth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry,  Brevet  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  United  States  Army,  Colonel  United  States  Colored  Troops. 

5.  Lieutenant  JAMES  W.  BENKARD,  JR. 

Lieutenant,  United  States  Volunteers.  Aide-de-Camp  to  Generals  King  and 
Augur. 

6.  Captain  JABEZ  H.  BRADBURY. 

Captain,  Fourth  Regiment,  Missouri  Cavalry.  Chief  of  staffof  General  Asboth. 

7.  Major  CLARENCE  S.  BROWN. 

Major,  United  States  Volunteers.     Aide-de-Camp  to  General  McDowell. 
8.  Lieutenant  GEORGE  L.  BROWNING. 

Lieutenant,  Fourteenth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry. 
9.  Captain  CHURCHILL  J.  CAMBRELING. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  April,  1861,  as  Lieutenant  in  the  Fifth 
New  York  Volunteers,  Duryee's  Zouaves.  Was  engaged  in  a  skirmish  at  New 
County  Bridge,  and  afterwards  led  the  assault  with  a  small  detachment  at  Big 
Bethel.  Was  recommended  for  "  bravery  and  good  conduct  at  the  battle  of 
Great  Bethel,"  in  Colonel  Duryee's  report,  and  also  "for  gallant  conduct  in 
action,"  in  Captain  Kilpatrick's  report.  Promoted  to  be  Captain,  September  3, 
1861.  At  Yorktown,  in  1862,  was  assigned  to  the  command  of  Battery  No. 
13,  his  company  serving  as  siege  artillerists.  Served  during  the  Peninsular 
campaign,  under  General  McClellan.  Was  present  and  in  command  of  his 
company  in  all  the  battles  of  the  Chickahominy,  from  Hanover  Court-House  to 
Harrison's  Landing,  including  the  Seven  Days'  Battles,  Mechanicsville,  Gaines's 
Mills,  Malvcrn  Hill,  &c.,  &c.  Was  recommended  by  Colonel  Duryee  for  gal 
lantry  and  good  conduct  at  the  battle  of  Gaines's  Mills,  17rh  June,  1862,  and 
was  recommended  for  promotion  by  Major-Generals  G.  K.  Warren  and  Fitz- 
John  Porter.  Elected  Major  of  Tenth  Senatorial  District  Regiment,  New 
York  Volunteers,  but  owing  to  prolonged  sickness,  the  result  of  exposure  and 
hardship,  was  prevented  from  qualifying  in  the  regiment.  Resigned  commis 
sion  in  consequence  of  continued  ill  health  in  the  fall  of  1862. 

10.  Captain  SAMUEL  CAREY. 

Lieutenant  United  States  Volunteers.  Aide-de-Camp  to  General  W.  F. 
Smith. 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  441 

11.  Lieutenant-Colonel  LYNDE  CATLIN. 

Captain  Fifteenth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry;  Brevet  Major,  United 
States  Artillery;  Lieutenant-Colonel,  United  States  Volunteers;  Assistant 
Inspector-General  to  General  Lew  Wallace. 

12.  Captain  P.  R.  CHADWICK. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  in  1861,  as  Adjutant  of  the  One  Hun 
dredth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Took  part  in  the  Peninsular  cam 
paign  in  1862,  and  was  present  in  all  the  battles.  December  31, 1862,  was  com 
missioned  Captain  and  Assistant  Adjutant-General,  and  was  assigned  to  duty  in 
the  Department  of  the  South,  serving  on  the  staffs  successively  of  Generals 
Seymour,  Gillmore,  and  Hatch,  and  taking  part  in  the  operations  thereof,  1863 
and  1864,  until  his  resignation,  April  2,  1864. 

13.  Lieutenant-Colonel  FLOYD  CLARKSON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  November  11,  1861,  as  Major,  in  the 
Sixth  New  York  Cavalry.  Served  in  Virginia,  in  the  Peninsula,  at  Peach 
Orchard  (or  Allen's  Farm),  Savage  Station,  White-Oak  Swamp,  and  Malvern 
Hill.  Resigned  October,  1862.  April  7,  1863,  was  commissioned  Major  of 
the  Twelfth  New  York  Cavalry.  Served  in  North  Carolina,  and  took  part  in 
Foster's  raids  to  Warsaw,  Kenansville,  Rocky  Mount,  Tarboro',  £c.  In  June, 
1864,  was  Inspector-General  of  Newbern.  In  the  spring  of  1865  took  a  con 
spicuous  and  gallant  part  in  the  series  of  battles  in  the  movement  of  Schofield 
and  Cox  upon  Wilmington.  Was  brevetted  Lieutenant-Colonel  for  services. 

14.  Captain  POINSETT  COOPER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  1,  1861,  as  Second  Lieuten 
ant  in  the  Second  Regiment,  New  York  State  Militia,  or  the  Eighty- 
Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  appointed  and  mustered 
in  as  First  Lieutenant,  in  the  Forty-Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volun 
teers,  March  17,  1862;  promoted  to  be  Captain,  September  17,  1862;  ap 
pointed  Assistant  Inspector-General,  June  1,  1863,  First  Brigade,  Second 
Division,  Second  Army  Corps.  Served  under  Generals  Stone,  Sedg- 
wick,  Sumner,  Howard,  Couch,  Gibbon,  Hancock,  Webb.  Was  always 
with  the  Second  Army  Corps,  from  the  time  General  McClellan  took  com 
mand.  He  was  engaged  at  Ball's  Bluff,  siege  of  York  town,  Fair  Oaks, 
Savage  Station,  Glcndale,  Malvern  Hill,  and  the  skirmishes  during  the 
seven  days'  retreat  from  front  of  Richmond  to  Harrison's  Landing,  second 
Bull  Run,  Antietam,  Frcdericksburg,  Bristow  Station,  Mine  Run,  Gettys 
burg,  and  Wilderness.  Was  wounded  in  the  foot  at  Antietam.  Was  wounded 
in  the  thigh  at  Bristow  Station.  Was  wounded  in  the  leg  st  the  Wilderness, 
and,  on  being  carried  to  the  rear,  was  shot  by  guerillas  in  the  breast.  Was 
mustered  out  of  service,  July,  1864,  with  his  regiment,  at  the  expiration  of  its 
term  of  service,  and  being  unfit  for  duty  from  the  wounds  received  at  the  Wil 
derness. 


442  HISTORY   OF  THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

15.  Captain  EDWARD  A.  COWDREY. 

Captain  Ninety-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Mortally  wounded 
at  Five  Forks,  Va. 

16.  Major  FRANK  H.  COWDREY. 

Captain  and  Brevet  Major,  United  States  Volunteers.  Assistant  Adjutant- 
General  to  General  Hayes. 

17.  Captain  EDWARD  COZZENS. 

Left  Leavenworth,  June  20,  1861,  with  the  brigade  of  Regulars  under  com 
mand  of  Major  S.  D.  Sturgis,  and  was  appointed  by  General  Nathaniel  Lyon 
Acting  Assistant  Quartermaster,  and  Acting  Assistant  Commissary-Sergeant, 
July  31,  1861,  with  rank  of  Captain.  Acted  as  Aid  to  Major  Sturgis  at  the 
battle  of  Wilson's  Creek,  Mo.,  and  was  complimented  in  his  official  report  of 
the  battle.  Afterwards  served  on  the  staff  of  General  J.  McKinsty  as  Acting 
Assistant  Commissary-Sergeant  of  his  division  in  Fremont's  campaign  in 
Missouri.  Resigned,  and  entered  the  First  United  States  Chasseurs  (Sixty- 
Fifth  New  York  Volunteers)  as  Second  Lieutenant,  March  12,  1862.  Pro 
moted  to  be  First  Lieutenant,  August  1,  1862  ;  Captain,  December  1,  1862. 
Participated  in  the  battles  of  Yorktown,  Williamsburg,  Fair  Oaks,  Gaines's 
Mills,  Turkey  Bend,  Malvern  Hill  (where  he  had  command  of  the  color  com 
pany),  Antietam,  Fredericksburg,  Maryc's  Heights,  Salem  Church,  Gettysburg, 
Rappahannock  Station,  and  Wilderness.  Was  wounded  while  on  the  skir 
mish  line  at  the  Wilderness  battle.  Was  discharged,  with  his  regiment,  Sep 
tember,  1864. 

18.  Captain  JAMES  D.  W.  CUTTING. 

Captain,  United  States  Volunteers.     Aide-de-Camp  to  General  McDowell. 

19.  Lieutenant-Colonel  Louis  L.  CUVILLIER. 

Captain,  Fifty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Brevet  Lieutenant- 
Colonel,  United  States  Volunteers. 

20.  Captain  ARCHIBALD  DOUGLAS. 
21.  Lieutenant  CHARLES  N.  DUBOIS. 

Lieutenant,  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volun 
teers. 

22.  Captain  ROBERT  S.  DUMONT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  April  19,  1861,  in  the  Fifth  Regiment, 
New  York  Volunteers  (Duryee's  Zouaves).  Raised  the  first  company  for 
that  regiment,  and  was  mustered  in  as  Captain,  April  25,  1861.  Went  to  the 
Peninsula  with  the  regiment.  Was  stationed  at  Camp  Hamilton,  Hampton, 
Va.,  in  Butler's  department,  and  was  thanked  by  General  Butler  in  general 
orders,  for  a  reconnoissance  made  by  a  part  of  the  company  under  his  com 
mand,  immediately  previous  to  the  battle  of  Big  Bethel.  Was  prostrated  by  sun 
stroke,  and  obliged  to  resign  on  account  of  his  health,  October  1,  1861.  Re 
ceived  the  appointment  of  secretary  to  Rear- Admiral  C.  H.  Bell,  commanding 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  443 

United  States  naval  forces  in  the  Pacific  Ocean,  December  11,  1861, with  the 
rank  of  Lieutenant  in  the  navy.  Was  appointed  Judgc-Advocate-Gcneral  of 
the  Pacific  Squadron,  May  9,  1863.  Resigned,  on  account  of  continued  ill 
health,  March  1,  1864.'" 

23.  Brigadier-General  JACOB  E.  DURYEE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  in  the 
Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Duryee's  Zouaves),  and  distinguished 
himself  at  Big  Bethel,  being  shortly  afterwards  made  Captain.  In  1862  he 
was  promoted  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel  of  the  Second  Maryland  Volunteers, 
and  he  commanded  this  regiment  through  Burnside's  campaign  in  North  Caro 
lina,  and  Pope's  in  Northern  Virginia,  and  was  at  South  Mountain  and  An- 
tietam.  He  was  brevetted  Colonel  and  Brigadier-General  for  gallant  and 
meritorious  services. 

24.  Captain  GEORGE  P.  EDGAR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  August  1,1861,  on  the  staff  of  General 
Fremont,  in  Missouri,  as  Assistant  Adjutant-General,  with  the  rank  of  Cap 
tain  ;  as  such  served  at  the  battle  of  Fredericktown,  Mo.,  and  at  the  post  of 
Cape  Girardeau,  Mo.,  until  the  General  was  relieved  of  his  command.  From 
December  1,  1861,  to  July  10,  1862,  was  Captain  and  Aide-de-Camp  on 
the  staff  of  Major-General  John  A.  McClernand,  of  Illinois,  at  Fort  Don- 
elson,  and  thereafter  until  compelled  to  retire  by  an  attack  of  the  typhoid. 
After  recovering,  he  received,  July  10,  1862,  a  commission  as  Captain  and 
Additional  Aide-de-Camp  on  General  Wool's  staff,  and  was  assigned  to  Ma 
jor-General  Lew  Wallace  for  duty,  with  whom  he  served  until  April  21, 
1863,  when  he  was  mustered  out  of  the  service  by  the  Secretary  of  War. 
January  6,  1864,  he  was  reinstated  and  ordered  to  report  to  Major-General 
Butler  for  duty.  During  that  interim  was  volunteer  Aide-de-Camp  to  Gen 
eral  Judah,  at  the  battle  of  Buffington  Bar,  Ohio,  with  John  Morgan,  in 
July,  1863. 

April  29,  1864,  his  resignation  as  Captain  and  Additional  Aide-de-Camp 
was  accepted.  Was  highly  recommended  for  gallantry  and  efficiency  by  Gei^ 
erals  McClernand,  Plummer,  N.  B.  Buford,  Lew  Wallace,  Judah,  and  others. 

25.  Captain  JOSEPH  S.  EDSALL. 
Captain,  Eleventh  Regiment,  Missouri  Cavalry. 

26.  Lieutenant  C.  H.  ELLINGWOOD. 
Lieutenant,  First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

27.  Lieutenant  ASHER  M.  ELLSWORTH. 

Lieutenant,  One  Hundred  and  Sixty-Fifth  New  York  Volunteers.  Quarter 
master.  Died  in  front  of  Port  Hudson,  at  the  siege  in  1863. 

28.  Captain  JOEL  B.  ERHARDT. 

Captain,  Vermont  Cavalry.  Captain  and  Provost-Marshal,  Fourth  District, 
New  York. 


444  HISTORY   OF   THE  SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

29.  Lieutenant  JAMES  F.  EVANS. 
Lieutenant,  Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Duryee  Zouaves). 

30.  Lieutenant-Colonel  GEORGE  W.  FORD. 

Major,  Fiftieth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  Engineers ;  Brevet  Lieuten 
ant-Colonel,  United  States  Volunteers. 

31.  Lieutenant  JAMES  W.  FORD. 

Lieutenant,  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volun 
teers. 

32.  Lieutenant  G.  W.  FORNEY. 

33.  Brigadier-General  JOHN  A.  FOSTER. 

Colonel,  One  Hundred  and  Seventy-Fifth  Regiment, New  York  Volunteers; 
Brevet  Brigadier-General,  United  States  Volunteers. 

34.  Captain  JOHN  W.  FRENCH. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  24,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  the  Eighth  United  States  Infantry.  Was  on  mustering  and  recruiting  ser 
vice  till  June  1,  1863.  Served  with  regiment  in  the  field  and  in  New  York 
till  December  18, 1863.  Was  Aide-de-Camp  to  Brigadier-General  Stannard,  and 
Pass  Officer  of  the  city  and  harbor  of  New  York  till  May  1 ,  1 864.  Served 
with  regiment  in  the  field  till  June  1,  1864.  Commissary  of  Musters,  Second 
Division,  Ninth  Army  Corps,  till  January  13,  1865.  Aide-de-Camp  to  Briga 
dier-General  R.  Ingalls,  Chief  Quartermaster,  armies  of  the  United  States,  till 
October  1,  1865.  Served  with  regiment  till  November  20,  1866.  Appointed 
Adjutant,  Eighth  Infantry,  January  31,  1866.  Promoted  First  Lieutenant, 
January  13,  1866.  Adjutant-General,  military  command  of  North  Carolina, 
from  October  1,  1866,  till  November  20,  1866.  Appointed  Captain,  Fortieth 
Infantry,  November  20,  1866,  to  date  from  July  28,  1866.  B revetted  First 
Lieutenant  and  Captain,  for  gallant  and  meritorious  service,  in  the  battles  of 
Weldon  Railroad  and  Hatcher's  Run.  Engaged  in  all  the  battles  of  the  cam 
paign  of  1864.  Was  with  General  Grant's  staff  on  duty,  as  Aid  to  General 
Ingalls  during  the  last  campaign,  and  at  Lee's  surrender.  In  January,  1865, 
volunteered  to  sink,  with  the  assistance  of  a  navy  officer,  two  schooners  in 
Trent's  Reach,  James  River,  under  Hovvlett  House  Battery,  to  prevent  the 
Rebel  iron-clads  from  descending  the  river.  This  was  successfully  accomplished, 
General  Ingalls,  speaking  of  the  latter  exploit,  says  :  "  Captain  French  served 
on  my  staff  with  great  credit  and  gallantry.  I  had  sent  him,  by  order  of  the 
Lieutenant-Gencral,  up  the  river  with  vessels  laden  with  coal,  to  sink  two 
on  the  night  of  the  25th  to  fill  up  the  gap  made  in  the  obstructions.  He  per 
formed  the  service  under  the  enemy's  guns  with  great  gallantry.  This  service 
was  of  the  highest  importance,  and  was  performed  under  many  hardships  and 
perils,  at  the  time  the  Rebel  iron-clads  attempted  to  descend  the  James." 

35.  Lieutenant  JAMES  GORDON,  JR. 
Lieutenant,  Fourth  Regiment,  United  States  Colored  Troops. 


ROLL   OF  HONOR.  445 

36.  Captain  S.  AUGUSTUS  GOULD. 
Aide-de-Camp  to  General  Steele. 

37.  Captain  CHARLES  C.  HAIGHT. 

Captain,  Thirty-Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

38.  Lieutenant  EDWARD  L.  HALSTED. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  November  15,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
in  the  Fortieth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  detailed  to  the  signal 
corps,  and  served  with  Banks  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley  on  staffs  of  Generals 
Crawford,  Hatch,  and  Sullivan.  Served  also  at  Loudon  Heights;  on  the 
Potomac  flotilla;  on  Pony  Mountain,  near  Culpepper  Court-House;  and  af 
terwards  successively  on  staffs  of  Generals  Merritt,  Sedgwick,  Wright,  Sheri 
dan,  and  Torbert.  Resigned  January  5,  1865. 

39.  Lieutenant-Colonel  RICHARD  F.  HALSTED. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  14,  1861,  as  Major  of  the  Fortieth 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  April  26,  1863,  was  appointed  Captain  and 
Aide-de-Camp  to  General  Sedgwick.  Served  always  with  the  Army  of  the  Po 
tomac  until  its  dissolution  ;  then  went  to  Department  of  Texas.  Served,  as 
staff  officer,  with  Major-Generals  John  Sedgwick  and  H.  G.  Wright ;  and 
under  division  commanders  Heintzelman,  C.  S.  Hamilton,  and  Kearny,  and, 
before  organization  of  Army  of  Potomac,  under  Fr.-mklin.  Served  in  the  Sixth 
Corps,  temporarily  in  the  Second  and  Ninth,  General  Sedgwick  having  been 
assigned  to  those  before  taking  command  of  the  Sixth.  With  this  corps  made 
the  Shenandoah  Valley  campaign.  Was  engaged  at  Williamsburg,  Fair  Oaks, 
the  Seven  Days,  Fredericksburg  second  (Sixth  Corps  alone,  —  rest  of  army 
at  Chancellorsville),  M^rye's  Heights,  Salem  Heights,  Gettysburg,  Rappahan- 
nock  Station,  Wilderness,  and  following  days  till  death  of  Sedgwick,  May  9. 
Came  home  with  his  remains.  Returned  June  1.  Cold  Harbor  (two  engage 
ments),  Winchester  or  Opequan,  Fisher's  Hill,  Cedar  Creek,  assault  on 
Petersburg,  Sailors'  Creek,  besides  skirmishes  such  as  Mine  Run,  Locust  Grove, 
movement  against  Early  at  Washington,  crossing  of  Shenandoah  River  by 
Sixth  Corps,  etc.  Was  brevetted  Major  and  Lieutenant-Colonel  of  Volun 
teers,  and  resigned  July  1,  1866. 

40.  Captain  WILLIAM  P.  HALSTED. 

Captain  in  the  Sixty -Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

41.  Mnjor-General  CHARLES  SCHUYLER  HAMILTON. 
Major- General,  United  States  Volunteers. 

42.  Lieutenant  JOHN  F.  HARDY. 

Lieutenant,  Thirty -Fourth  Regiment,  New  Jersey  Volunteers. 

43.  Captain  HENRY  W.  HICKS,  JR. 

Captain,  One  Hundred  and  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 
Mortally  wounded  in  front  of  Port  Hudson,  La. 


446  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

44.  Lieutenant-Colonel  SAMUEL  J.  HOPKINS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  29,  1862,  as  Captain  in  the 
Seventh  Regiment,  New  Jersey  Volunteers.  Served  until  April,  1864,  in  Mott's 
(Third)  Brigade,  Second  Division,  Third  Army  Corps,  and  afterwards,  till 
end  of  war,  in  Second  Brigade  (Mott's),  Third  Division,  Second  Corps.  Mus 
tered  out  with  regiment  October  7,  1864.  Commissioned  Captain  and  Lieu 
tenant-Colonel,  Fortieth  Regiment,  New  Jersey  Volunteers,  early  in  1865.  Was 
in  the  battles  of  Fredericksburg,  Chancellorsville,  McLean's  Ford,  Kelly's  Ford, 
Wilderness,  Spottsylvania,  North  Anna,  Tolopotomy,  Cold  Harbor,  Peters 
burg,  Deep  Bottom,  Strawberry  Plains,  and  other  actions  around  Petersburg. 
Was  slightly  wounded  at  Chancellorsville,  and  again  at  Spottsylvania.  His 
regiment  captured  five  stands  of  colors  at  Andersonville. 

45.  Captain  FRANCIS  A.  HOWELL. 
Captain,  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

46.  Colonel  HARMON  D.  HULL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  9,  1861,  as  Captain  in  the  Fifth 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Dm*yee's  Zouaves).  Was  promoted  to  be 
Major,  September  7,  1861,  and  Lieutenant-Colonel,  October  29,  1862.  Was 
appointed  Colonel  to  raise  the  One  Hundred  and  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New 
York  Volunteers,  in  October,  1862.  Commanded  his  company  at  Big  Bethel, 
and  served  throughout  the  Peninsular  campaign.  Resigned  on  account  of 
ill  health,  January  22,  1863. 

47.  Lieutenant  JOHN  L.  HYDE. 

48.  Captain  JULIAN  JAMES. 

Captain,  United  States  Volunteers ;  Aide-de-Camp  to  General  G.  K.  War 
ren. 

49.  Major  Rurrrs  KING,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  5,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant  in 
the  Fourth  Artillery  (Regular  Army),  and  was  promoted  to  be  First  Lieuten 
ant.  Served  in  West  Virginia  with  Rosecrans,  and  throughout  the  Peninsular 
campaign,  in  all  its  battles.  At  White-Oak  Swamp,  the  Captain  of  his  bat 
tery  (Hazard)  having  been  mortally  wounded  soon  after  the  battle  began,  he 
took  command  of  it  (an  eight-gun  battery),  and  prevented  the  enemy  from 
building  a  bridge  over  the  swamp  until  the  retreat  of  our  forces  had  been 
secured' to  Harrison's  Landing.  The  battery  (A)  lost  nearly  half  its  num 
ber  in  killed  and  wounded,  under  a  concentrated  fire  from  twenty  pieces 
massed  by  the  enemy.  He  was  brevetted  Captain  "  for  gallant  and  meritori 
ous  conduct  at  White-Oak  Swamp."  Took  part,  with  his  crippled  battery, 
at  Malvern  Hill.  Took  part  in  the  battles  of  Bull  Run,  South  Mountain, 
and  Aniietam,  the  battery  being  attached  to  the  Second  Corps,  and  in  every 
battle  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  except  Gettysburg,  he  being  furloughed 
for  sickness  at  that  time,  but  arriving,  at  the  end,  having  crossed  the  enemy's 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  447 

lines  with  despatches  from  W.  F.  Smith,  at  Harrisburg,  to  General  Meade. 
Operated  with  the  cavalry  after  Gettysburg,  commanding  his  battery,  which 
had  been  selected  as  one  of  the  "  Horse  Batteries."  Thereafter,  engagements 
were  daily  during  campaigning  seasons,  and  he  participated  in  all  the  engage 
ments.  Also  participated  in  General  Sheridan's  raid,  which  was  a  succession 
of  battles  from  the  Wilderness  to  Cold  Harbor,  just  before  the  army  crossed 
the  James,  when  his  battery  being  crippled  from  severe  service,  it  was  sent  to 
Washington  to  recuperate,  where  he  remained  with  it  until  the  end  of  the  war. 
Has  been  recommended  for  brevets  by  Generals  Sunnier,  Hancock,  Pleasanton, 
and  Gregg.  Was  brevctted  Major  for  gallant  and  meritorious  services  during 
the  war. 

50.  Lieutenant-Colonel  SAMUEL  B.  LAWRENCE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  (to  rank  May  14,  1861)  as  First  Lieuten 
ant,  Sixteenth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry,  filling  vacancy  caused  by 
death  of  Theodore  Winthrop,  killed  in  battle  at  Big  Bethel.  Promoted  to  be 
Captain,  May  3, 1862.  Served  in  the  Army  of  the  Cumberland  under  Generals 
Buell  and  Rosecrans  during  their  campaigns  in  1861,  1862,  and  1863.  From 
March  to  August,  1863,  was  assigned  to  duty  as  Commissary  of  Musters  for 
the  Twentieth  Army  Corps,  and  attached  to  the  staif  of  General  McCook, 
also  temporarily  assigned  as  Chief  Commissary  of  Musters  for  the  Army  of 
the  Cumberland,  under  Rosecrans.  August,  1863,  assigned  to  duty  at  the 
War  Department,  Washington,  as  assistant  to  Colonel  Fry,  Provost-Marshal- 
General.  March,  1864,  assigned  to  duty  as  Assistant  Adjutant-General  of  the 
Eighth  Army  Corps,  and  appointed  Chief  of  Staff  to  General  Lew  Wallace, 
commanding  the  Middle  Department  and  Eighth  Army  Corps,  and  continued 
as  such  until  the  corps  was  disbanded  and  the  Middle  Department  abolished, 
after  the  surrender  of  the  Rebel  armies,  when  he  resigned  his  commission  in 
the  Regular  Army,  which  was  accepted  to  date  August  14,  1865.  He  received 
brevet  commissions  as  Captain,  United  States  Army,  "  for  gallant  and  meri 
torious  service  at  the  battle  of  Shiloh,  Tennessee,  1862";  Major  and 
Lieutenant-Colonel,  United  States  Army,  "  for  faithful  and  meritorious 
services  during  the  war." 

51.  Brigadier-General  WILLIAM  HUDSON  LAWRENCE. 
Entered  the  United  States  service  May  14,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant,  Four 
teenth  United  States  Infantry.  Promoted  to  be  Captain,  Fourteenth  Infantry, 
November,  1861  ;  to  be  Colonel,  Thirty-Fourth  New  Jersey  Volunteers,  Sep 
tember,  1863.  Brevet  Major  and  Brevet  Lieutenant-Colonel,  United  States 
Army,  June,  1865.  Brevet  Brigadier-General,  United  States  Volunteers, 
August,  1865.  Served  on  the  Peninsula  under  Fitz  John  Porter,  Fifth  Army 
Corps ;  remained  in  this  corps,  under  Generals  Meade  and  Sykes,  until  June, 
1863.  Served  in  Mississippi,  Kentucky,  Tennessee,  and  Alabama  in  Sixteenth 
Army  Corps,  under  General  A.  J.  Smith,  from  November,  1863,  until  the  end 
of  the  war.  Took  part  in  the  battles  of  second  Bull  Run,  Antietam,  Freder- 
icksburg,  Chancellorsville.  Accompanied  A.  J.  Smith  on  his  expedition  after 


448  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

Forrest  to  Jackson  (Tennessee).  Commanded  Columbus,  Kentucky,  when 
it  was  summond  to  surrender  by  part  of  Forrest's  command,  under  General 
A.  B u ford,  April  13,  1864.  At  the  siege  of  Mobile,  taking  part  in  the  attack 
of  Spanish  Fort  and  Fort  Blakely,  was  engaged  in  numerous  skirmishes- 
Captured  the  notorious  guerilla  "Jim  Kersterson,"  of  Tennessee,  killing  and 
destroying  his  band.  Was  slightly  wounded  at  second  Bull  Run,  and  sun- 
struck  on  the  inarch  to  Gettysburg,  Virginia. 

Was  mentioned  in  General  Grant's  report  of  the  operations  of  the  army  for 
the  last  year  of  the  war,  for  his  refusal  to  surrender  Columbus,  Kentucky  ;  and 
for  the  same,  by  all  the  public  journals  about  April  14,  18G4;  mentioned  by 
the  Committee  on  the  Conduct  of  the  War  for  same,  and  for  refusing  to  receive 
Rebel  flags  of  truce  at  Columbus,  Kentucky,  after  the  Fort  Pillow  massacre. 
The  garrison  of  Columbus,  Kentucky,  on  the  morning-  of  the  demand  for  its 
surrender,  was  under  one  thousand  effective  men,  when  the  minimum  garrison 
require'!  for  the  two  forts  was  three  thousand.  He  was  reinforced  shortly  after, 
wards  by  about  five  thousand  of  the  ninety  days'  troops,  mostly  from  Illinois. 
Was  ordered  to  the  command  of  Maryfield,  Kentucky,  in  September,  1864, 
when  that  post  was  threatened.  "  During  his  whole  service  continually  met 
members  of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  National  Guard,  holding  high 
positions,  doing  honor  to  themselves  and  country."  Resigned  in  August, 
1865,  the  war  having  ended. 

52.  Captain  MORTIMER  LIVINGSTON. 
Captain,  One  Hundred  and  Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

53.  Captain  THEODORE  MALLABT,  JR. 

Examined  and  passed  as  Second  Lieutenant  for  Signal  Corps,  United  States 
Army,  October,  1863.  Commissioned,  July  15,  1864.  Served  in  Tennessee 
during  the  Avar,  in  Texas  after  the  war.  Distinguished  himself  in  operations 
with  Stoneman  arid  Wilson  in  their  extended  cavalry  expeditions  of  1865,  and 
received  warm  commendations  in  the  report  of  the  chief  signal  officer,  Depart 
ment  of  Cumberland.  He  carried  the  War  Department  despatches  from 
Washington  to  Macon,  to  General  Wilson,  ordering  the  capture  of  Jefferson 
Davis.  Served  as  Aide-de-Camp  to  General  Gibbsin  Texas.  Honorably  dis 
charged  February  7,  1866. 

54.  Major  EDWATID  MARRENNER. 

Major,  United  States  Volunteers,  Assistant  Adjutant-General  to  Major-Gen- 
eral  Hancock. 

55.  Colonel  THOMAS  B.  MARSH. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  18,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant, 
First  United  States  Voltigeurs,  afterwards  Fifty-First  New  York  Volunteers. 
Promoted  First  Lieutenant,  Fifty-First  New  York  Volunteers,  March  14,  1862. 
Captain,  September  30,  1862.  Major,  December  31,  1864.  Lieutenant-Colonel, 
April  29,  1865.  Brevet-Colonel,  United  States  Volunteers,  "for  gallant  and 
meritorious  services  during  the  war,"  March  13,  1865.  Served  in  North  Car- 


ROLL   OF  HONOR.  449 

olina,  Virginia,  Maryland,  Kentucky,  Tennessee,  and  Mississippi,  and  was  on 
the  staffs  of  Major- Generals  Reno,  Parke,  Burnside,  Wileox,  Potter,  Sedgwick, 
and  Smith.  Was  in  the  battles  of  Ronoake  Island,  Newborn,  Fort  Macon, 
Clark  Mountain,  Kelly's  Ford,  second  Manassas,  Chantilly,  Frederick,  South 
Mountain,  Fredericksburg,  siege  of  Vicksburg  and  Jackson,  Loudon,  Camp 
bell  Station,  siege  of  Knoxville  and  Fort  Sanders,  Wilderness,  Spottsylvania, 
first  and  second  North  Anna,  •  Tolopotomy  Creek,  Bethesda  Church,  Cold 
Harbor,  First  Petersburg,  Petersburg  mine  explosion,  Petersburg  final  attack. 
Mustered  out  August  5,  1865. 

56.  Sergeant  GEORGE  L.  MIDDLEBROOK. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  7, 1864,  in  the  Forty-Eighth  Regi 
ment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  First  Sergeant  Company  I, 
June  4,  1865.  Served  in  Second  Brigade,  Second  Division,  Tenth  Corps, 
first  under  Butler  at  Chapin's  Farm,  Virginia,  and  then  under  Terry  in  the 
North  Carolina  campaign.  Mustered  out  September  1,  1865. 

57.  Major  LINDLEY  M.  H.  MILLER. 
Major,  United  States  Colored  Troops.     Died  in  the  service,  June,  1864. 

58.  Colonel  CHARLES  L.  NORTON. 
Colonel,  Seventh  Regiment,  United  States  Colored  Troops. 

59.  Captain  GEORGE  H.  PALMER. 

Captain,  United  States  Volunteers,  Aide-de-Camp  to  General  Rosecrans. 

60.  Lieutenant-Colonel  TATTNALL  PAULDINO. 

Captain,  Sixth  Regiment,  United  States  Cavalry ;  BrevetLieutenant-Colonel, 
United  States  Army. 

61.  Paymaster  CHARLES  B.  PERRY. 
Assistant  Paymaster,  United  States  Navy. 

62.  Major  HORATIO  POTTER,  JR. 

Captain,  Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  Artillery;  Brevet  Major,  United  States 
Volunteers. 

63.  Captain  JAMES  P.  RAYMOND. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  10,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Ninetieth  New  York  Volunteers.  Adjutant,  December  13,  1861;  Captain, 
August  16,  1861.  Post  Adjutant  and  Acting  Assistant  Adjutant-General 
eight  months.  Served  in  South  Carolina  and  Florida  under  Generals  Bran- 
nan,  Hunter,  and  Mitchell.  Resigned  April  13, 1863.  Commissioned  Captain 
in  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-Fiust  New  York  Volunteers,  September  12,  1863. 
Served  in  Louisiana  and  in  Shenandoah  Valley,  Nineteenth  Corps.  Was 
mentioned  for  gallantry  at  Winchester  and  Fisher's  Hill.  Mustered  out  July 
26,  1865. 

29 


450  HISTORY  OF  THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

64.  Lieutenant  S.  H.  ROBBINS. 
Lieutenant.     Aide-de-Camp  to  General  Butterfield. 

65.  Lieutenant-Colonel  WILLIAM  H.  ROOMS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  17,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant, 
Sixty-Fifth  New  York  Volunteers.  December  14,  1861,  was  promoted  to 
be  First  Lieutenant  and  Adjutant.  On  April  11,  1863,  was  commissioned  by 
the  President  Captain  and  Assistant  Adjutant-General.  On  the  19th  Sep 
tember,  1864,  for  services  at  the  battle  of  Winchester,  was  brevetted  Major 
and  Assistant  Adjutant-General ;  and  for  general  services  was  brevetted 
Lieutenant-Colonel  and  Assistant  Adjutant-General  from  November  19,  1864. 
Was  in  all  the  battles  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  from  Yorktown  to  Peters 
burg,  missing  no  skirmish  or  battle  in  which  his  regiment  was  engaged, 
until,  January  18,  1865,  he  resigned  on  account  of  severe  wounds.  Was  also 
in  the  Shenandoah  campaigns,  with  the  Sixth  Corps.  General  Upton,  in 
his  report  of  Winchester,  says  (September  19,  1864):  "Captain  William  P. 
Roome,  Assistant  Adjutant-General,  Second  Brigade,  distinguished  himself 
b}'  repeated  acts  of  gallantry.  Without  hint  or  suggestion  he  hastened  wher 
ever  danger  was  the  most  threatening,  and  by  his  personal  example  contrib 
uted  greatly  to  the  success  of  the  day.  I  have  never  known  in  battle  an  officer  to 
do  his  duty  more  nobly  or  efficiently."  General  McKenzie  said  (October  11, 
1 864)  :  "  I  have  the  honor  to  transmit  the  following  names  of  officers  for  brevet 
rank  for  gallant  service  in  the  action  and  at  the  date  set  opposite  their  namrs. 
....  Captain  William  P.  Iloome,  Assistant  Adjutant-General,  to  be 
Brevet  Major  and  Assistant  Adjutant-General,  for  gallant  and  merito 
rious  conduct  at  the  battles  of  Opequan  or  Winchester,  and  Fisher's  Hill, 
September  19  and  21,  1864 If  any  of  these  mentioned  deserve  pro 
motion  more  than  the  others,  I  would  especially  call  attention  to  the  name  of 
Captain  William  P.  Roome,  Assistant  Adjutant- General."  General  Up 
ton  wrote,  October  30,  1864,  to  the  Secretary  of  War:  "He  served 
in  the  Sixth  Corps  in  nearly  all  of  its  battles  up  to  July,  1864,  when 
he  was  assigned  to  my  brigade,  joining  it  with  a  high  reputation  for  zeal,  gal 
lantry,  and  integrity.  At  the  battle  of  Winchester,  when,  by  the  disaster  of  the 
Nineteenth  Corps,  the  fate  of  the  day  seemed  to  hang  upon  the  conduct  of  the 
last  reserve  thrown  into  action,  so  conspicuous  was  his  gallantry  and  so  marked 
were  his  services,  that  on  the  field,  and  in  the  presence  of  his  brother-officers,  I 
promised  to  do  all  in  my  power  to  secure  his  promotion.  Later  in  the  day, 
when  the  successful  attack  was  made,  he  was  again  wherever  the  presence  of 
a  staff  officer  was  most  necessary,  and  bore  important  orders  with  a  zeal  that  I 
have  never  seen  surpassed.  In  every  official  report,  as  division  commander, 
I  made  special  mention  of  him,  and  recommended  his  immediate  promotion. 
On  all  occasions,  whether  in  his  office,  in  camp,  or  campaign,  or  in  battle, 
Captain  Roome  has  proven  himself  a  brave,  efficient,  and  patriotic  officer." 
The  same  officer  wrote  to  Captain  Roome  :  "  I  will  state  as  a  simple  fact,  that 
not  only  were  you  the  best  Adjutant-General  I  ever  had,  but  that  I  saw  little, 


ROLL    OF   HONOR.  451 

if  any,  space  for  improvement.  Your  habitual  promptness  and  zeal,  the 
alacrity  with  which  you  performed  every  duty,  and,  above  all,  the  coolness  and 
intrepidity  you  displayed  in  battle,  won  my  highest  admiration  and  regard." 
General  Shaler  wrote  to  President  Lincoln  :  "  In  fitness  for  the  rank  of  Major 
and  Assistant  Adjutant-General,  I  know  of  no  superior  in  the  service."  Gen 
eral  Hamblin  wrote  :  "  On  the  field  he  has  ever  acted  with  distinguished  gal 
lantry,  particularly  at  Malvern  Hill,  Gettysburg,  battles  of  the  Wilderness, 
Spottsylvania,  and  Cold  Harbor."  He  was  severely  wounded  at  the  battle  of 
Cedar  Creek  in  the  valley  of  the  Shenandoah,  on  the  19th  of  October,  1864. 
The  ball  entered  about  one  half  inch  from  the  hip-joint,  and  passed  through 
the  lower  part  of  abdomen,  —  a  dangerous  wound,  causing  long  suffering. 

66.  Major  PHILIP  SCHUYLER,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  14,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant. 
United  States  Infantry  (Regular  Army).  Appointed  Regimental  Adjutant, 
November  5,  1861,  and  so  remained  till  appointed  Captain,  July,  1863, 
Brevetted  Major,  United  States  Army,  to  date  from  April  9,  1865.  Served  in 
the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  in  the  early  part  of  the  campaign  of  .1862,  the  lat 
ter  part  of  campaign  of  1863,  and  through  the  campaigns  of  1864  and  1865; 
was  present  at  the  battles  of  Rappahannock  Station,  Mine  Run,  Wilder 
ness,  Spottsylvania,  North  Anna,  Cold  Harbor,  Petersburg  (June  16  and  17, 
1864),  Burnside's  Mine,  Weldon  Railroad,  second  Hatcher's  Run,  Fort  Sted- 
man,  Boydton  Plank-Road,  Five  Forks,  Petersburg  (April  2,  1865),  Amelia 
Court-House,  and  surrender  of  General  Lee.  Acted  during  1863,  1864,  and 
1865  as  Acting  Assistant  Adjutant- General  and  Chief  of  Staff  to  Provost- 
Marshal-General,  Army  of  Potomac  and  Department  of  Virginia,  and  was 
Acting  Provost-Marshal-General,  Army  of  Potomac,  from  November  24,  1864, 
to  March  16,  1865.  Resigned  June  30,  1865,  at  close  of  war.  Was  brcvetted 
Major,  United  States  Army,  "  for  gallant  and  meritorious  services  during  the 
recent  operations  resulting  in  the  fall  of  Richmond,  Virginia,  and  the  sur 
render  of  the  insurgent  army  under  General  Robert  E.  Lee,  to  date  from 
April  9,  1865. 

67.  Colonel  ROBERT  G.  SHAW. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant  in  the 
Second  Regiment,  Massachusetts  Volunteers.  Served  with  his  regiment  in 
Virginia.  At  Cedar  Mountain  was  Aid  to  General  Gordon.  In  the  charge  of 
his  regiment  on  that  field  twenty-two  young  officers  went  in,  of  whom 
thirteen  were  killed  or  wounded,  five  left  dead  on  the  field.  He  was  engaged 
at  Antietam,  and  was  commissioned,  January,  1863,  Colonel  of  the  Fifth 
Fourth  Regiment,  Massachusetts  Volunteers,  raised  by  Governor  Andrew,  and 
the  first  colored  regiment  ever  recruited  under  State  authority.  Served  in 
South  Carolina,  and  took  part  with  his  regiment  in  the  battle  of  James  Island. 
On  the  19th  of  July,  1863,  he  headed  with  his  regiment  the  famous  storming 
column  at  the  assault  of  Fort  Wagner.  When  about  one  hundred  yards  from 
the  fort  the  Rebel  musketry  opened  with  such  terrible  effect,  that  for  an  in- 


452  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

stant  the  first  battalion  hesitated,  but  only  for  an  instant ;  for  Colonel  Shaw, 
springing-  to  the  front  and  waving  his  sword,  shouted,  "Forward,  Fifty- 
Fourth  ! "  and  with  another  cheer  and  a  shout,  they  rushed  through  the  ditch, 
and  gained  the  parapet  on  the  right.  Colonel  Shaw  was  one  of  the  first  to 
scale  the  walls.  He  stood  erect  to  urge  forward  his  men,  and  while  shouting 
for  them  to  press  on  was  shot  dead  on  the  parapet.  A  stalwart  negro-man 
had  fallen  near  him.  The  Rebels  said  the  negro  was  a  color-sergeant.  The 
Colonel  had  been  killed  by  a  rifle-shot  through  the  chest,  though  he  had  re 
ceived  other  wounds.  Brigadier-General  Haygood,  commanding  the  Rebel 
forces,  said  :  "  I  knew  Colonel  Shaw  before  the  war,  and  then  esteemed  him ; 
had  he  been  in  command  of  white  troops,  I  should  have  given  him  an  honor 
able  burial.  As  it  is,  I  shall  bury  him  in  the  common  trench,  with  the 
negroes  that  fell  with  him." 

68.  Lieutenant  W.  M.  G.  SHAW. 

Lieutenant,  Forty-Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 
69.  Captain  ALEXANDER  E.  SHELDON. 

Captain,  Fourth  United  States  Infantry,  Regular  Army. 
70.  Captain  AUGUSTUS  SMIMMEL. 

Entered  the  United  States  sen-ice,  June  18,  1861,  as  Lieutenant  and  Quarter 
master,  Eighth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  Captain 
and  Acting  Quartermaster,  United  States  Volunteers,  February  19,  1862. 
Served  nearly  four  years  in  Virginia  and  Georgia,  and  resigned,  April  22, 
1865,  in  consequence  of  physical  disability  contracted  in  the  field.  Was 
present  at  the  battles  of  Bull  Run,  Cross  Keys,  Strasburg,  Culpepper, 
(Slaughter  Mountain),  Waterloo  Bridge,  White  Sulphur  Springs,  Warren- 
ton,  Manassas,  Frederickshurg,  Chancellorsville,  Chattanooga,  Kingston, 
Resaca,  Big  Shanty,  Kenesaw  Mountain,  Chattahoochee  River,  Atlanta, 
Savannah.  Was  mentioned  by  Generals  Ingalls  and  Steinwehr,  for  u  valor 
and  energy  in  protecting  our  property,"  the  occasion  being  an  attack  by 
Stuart's  cavalry  on  the  field-train  of  the  Eleventh  Corps,  then  (August  23 
1862)  under  his  care  at  Catlctt's  Station.  He  formed  his  train  in  hollow 
square,  and  with  a  guard  of  twenty  men  of  the  Forty-Fifth  New  York  Volun 
teers  repulsed  the  attack. 

71.  Lieutenant  CHARLES  G.  SMEDBERG. 

Lieutenant,  Fourteenth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry.  Died  in  camp, 
near  Falmouth,  Virginia. 

72.  Lieutenant-Colonel  WILLIAM  R.  SMEDBERG. 

Captain,  Fourteenth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry.  Brevet  Lieutenant- 
Colonel,  United  States  Army. 

73.  Chaplain  J.  TUTTLE  SMITH. 
Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Chaplain  in  the  Regular  Army,  and 


ROLL    OF   HONOR.  453 

was  assigned  to  the  •'  Ladies'  Home  United  States  Army  General  Hospital," 
where  he  remained  until  its  close  in  June,  1865.  Resigned,  Surgeon  P.  A. 
O'Connell  indorsing  the  resignation  as  follows :  "  Reverend  J.  Tuttle 
Smith  has  been  on  duty  at  this  hospital  since  May,  1862.  During  the  first 
year  his  services  were  wholly  gratuitous,  and  he  has  been  constant  and  in 
dustrious  in  the  discharge  of  his  duties  since.  During  the  whole  period  of  his 
connection  with  the  hospital  he  has  devoted  both  time  and  money  to  the  bene 
fit  of  the  soldiers." 

74.  Lieutenant-Colonel  WILLIAM  W.  STEPHENSON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  22,  1862,  as  Captain,  Com 
pany  C,  One  Hundred  and  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 
Served  in  the  Nineteenth  Corps,  Virginia  and  Louisiana.  Promoted  to  be 
Major,  July  26,  1865  ;  brevetted  Lieutenant-Colonel,  May  9,  1866,  for  gallant 
and  meritorious  services  during  the  war.  Served  in  various  engagements  in 
Louisiana,  and  under  Sheridan,  and  on  the  staffs  of  various  general  officers  as 

Aide-de-Camp. 

75.  Lieutenant  HENRY  A.  STILL. 

Lieutenant,  Fifty-Sixth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

76.  Captain  EDWARD  C.  STURGIS. 

Captain,  One  Hundred  and  First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Aide-de- 
Camp  to  General  Heintzelman. 

77.  Adjutant  CHARLES  T.  SUTTON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  22,  1861,  as  Adjutant  of  the  Thirty- 
Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  elected  Lieutenant-Colonel, 
but  not  appointed  Served  through  the  Peninsular  campaign,  and  was 
specially  engaged  at  Williamsburg,  Mechanicsville,  and  Golden  Farm.  Was 
also  engaged  at  Drainesville  and  Crampton  Pass,  and  at  Antietam  com 
manded  his  regiment  for  a  time.  Resigned,  from  disease  contracted  on  the 
Peninsula,  October  29,  1862. 

78.  Captain  DEFOREST  H.  THOMAB. 
Captain,  One  Hundred  and  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

79.  Captain  GOULD  H.  THORP. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  6,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
One  Hundred  Sixty -Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  ;  September  18, 

1862,  promoted  to.be  Captain.     Served  in  Louisiana,  under  General  Banks 
(Nineteenth  Corps),  at  battle  of  Pentachoula  (or  Clinton  Cross-Roads),  Baton 
Rouge,  Port  Hudson,  and  "  New  Iberia  campaign,"  Louisiana.     Mentioned 
in  orders  for  gallant  conduct  while  commanding  skirmishes  at  Pentachoula, 
Louisiana.     Wounded  three  times  while  charging  on  Port  Hudson,  May  27, 

1863,  and  was  in  hospital  ten  months  .from  his  wounds.     Resigned   March 
14,  1864,  in  consequence  of  ill  health. 


454  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

80.  Lieutenant  FREDERIC  A.  TRACY. 

Lieutenant,  Twelfth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry.  Died  in  the  United 
States  service  June  3,  1862. 

81.  Captain  FANNING  C.  TUCKER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant,  Company  I),  One 
Hundred  and  Third  Regiment,  New  York  State  Volunteers,  February  18, 
1862.  Promoted  to  captaincy  of  Company  H,  April  4,  1862.  Served  under 
Generals  Burnside  in  North  Carolina,  Pope  in  Virginia,  and  McClellan  in 
the  Maryland  campaign.  Was  wounded  at  the  battle  of  Antietam,  Septem 
ber  17,  1862,  and  left  the  service  soon  after,  in  consequence  of  disability  from 

wounds. 

82.  Captain  WILLIAM  GRACIE  ULSHOEFFER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  4,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  and 
Adjutant,  Thirty-Sixth  New  York  State  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  Cap 
tain,  November  12,  1861.  Detached  as  A.  A.  A.  G.,  on  the  staff  of  General 
Devens,  September  10,  1861,  and  A.  D.  C.  to  General  John  Newton,  com 
manding  Third  Division,  Sixth  Corps,  from  October,  1862,  till  mustered  out 
with  his  regiment,  June  30,  1863.  Took  part  in  all  the  engagements  in  which 
his  division  participated,  with  the  exception  of  Malvern  Hill. 

83.  Lieutenant  WILLIAM  HENRY  VANCE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  15,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
One  Hundred  and  Sixty-Fifth  New  York  Volunteers  (Second  Duryee  Zou 
aves).  Acted  as  Adjutant  of  regiment,  and  commanded  color  company  at 
assault  on  Port  Hudson,  May  27,  1863,  where  he  was  wounded  by  grape-shot 
in  the  left  breast.  Relieved  from  sentence  of  court-martial  (disobedience  of 
orders),  by  special  order  of  President  Lincoln,  for  "gallantry  in  action." 
Was  A.  I.  G.  and  A.  D.  C.  to  General  Nickerson,  at  Port  Hudson.  Served 
in  various  other  engagements  in  Louisiana.  Honorably  discharged,  February, 
1864. 

84.  Lieutenant  CHARLES  F.  VAN  DUSER. 

Lieutenant,  Twelfth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry.  Killed  at  Gaines's 
Mills,  on  the  Peninsula. 

85.  Lieutenant  JAMES  H.  VAN  NOSTRAND. 

Lieutenant,  Third  Regiment,  New  Jersey  Cavalry.  Died  a  prisoner  of  war 
at  Lynchburg,  Virginia. 

86.  Major  PHILIP  L.  VAN  RENSSELAER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  7,  1862,  as  Second  Lieutenant, 
Company  F,  Second  New  Jersey  Cavalry.  Promoted  to  be  Captain,  Septem 
ber  8,  1862,  and  to  be  Major  of  same  regiment,  September  8,  1863.  Served 
in  all  the  States  in  rebellion  except  two,  viz.  North  and  South  Carolina,  but 
principally  in  the  Southwest  and  in  the  Department  of  the  Gulf  and  Military 
Division  of  West  Mississippi,  under  Grierson,  A.  J.  Smith,  Banks,  Canby, 


ROLL    OF   HONOR.  455 

Mower,  and  Sheridan,  principally  employed  in  raiding  through  the  country, 
destroying  railroads,  crops,  and  military  stores,  fighting  guerillas,  and  skir 
mishing  with  detachments.  Was  at  one  time  on  duty  on  Canby's  staff  as  As 
sistant  .Provost-Marshal-General  of  the  division.  Resigned  June  27,  1864. 

87.  Captain  GEORGE  R.  VERNON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  in  1861,  and  served  as  A.  D.  C.  at 
battles  of  Big  Bethel  and  Bull  Run,  Virginia.  Joined  Fourteenth  United 
States  Infantry,  September  29,  1862.  Promoted  to  be  Second  Lieutenant, 
February  27,  1863;  First  Lieutenant,  June  18,  1864;  Quartermaster  and 
A.  C.  S.,  First  Battalion,  Fourteenth  Infantry,  October  7,  1865  ;  Brevet 
Captain,  October  27,  1864;  Captain,  May  24,  1867.  Engaged  in  battles 
of  Big  Bethel,  Bull  Run,  Chancellorsville,  Mine  Run,  Gettysburg,  Wapping 
Heights,  Beverly  Ford,  Rappahannock  Station,  defences  of  Washington, 
1864.  Chapel  House,  sieges  of  Yorktown,  Fredericksburg,  Petersburg,  and 
Richmond.  Brevctted  Captain,  "  for  gallant  and  meritorious  conduct  at 
Poplar  Grove  Church  and  Hatcher's  Run."  In  the  field  at  the  surrender  of 
General  Lee's  army,  April,  1865.  Is  still  in  the  Regular  Army. 

88.  Lieutenant  JAMES  B.  VOSE. 
Lieutenant,  One  Hundred  and  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

89.  Captain  ROBERT  WARREN. 

Lieutenant,  One  Hundred  and  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  ; 
Captain,  One  Hundred  and  Forty-Sixth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers; 
Aide-de-Camp  to  General  Warren. 

90.  Master  BENJAMIN  S.  WEEKS. 

Entered  the  United  States  Navy,  September  2, 1861,  as  Master's  Mate.  Pro 
moted  to  be  Acting  Master,  December  21,  1861.  Took  part  in  the  bat 
tles  below  New  Orleans,  and  those  at  Vicksburg  and  Fort  Fisher.  Was 
captured  at  Sabine  Pass,  September  8,  1863,  and  held  as  prisoner  of  war  eleven 
months.  Resigned  April,  1865,  at  close  of  war. 

91.  Lieutenant  EDWARD  W.  WEST. 

Lieutenant,  First  Regiment,  United  States  Artillery;  Aide-de-Camp  to 
General  Hooker. 

92.  Lieutenant  ROSWELL  WESTON. 

Lieutenant,  First  Regiment,  United  States  Sharpshooters. 

93.  Paymaster  F.  A.  WHEELER. 
Assistant  Paymaster,  United  States  Navy. 

94.  Engineer  GEORGE  H.  WHITE. 
Assistant  Engineer,  United  States  Navy. 

95.  Colonel  WILLIAM  W.  WINTIIROP. 

Major  and  Judge  Advocate,  United  States  Volunteers ;  Brevet  Colonel, 
U.  S. A. 


456  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

96.  Surgeon  WILMER  S.  WOOD. 
Assistant  Surgeon,  United  States  Volunteers. 

97.  Lieutenant  GEORGE  W.  YOUNG. 

SEVENTH  COMPANY   (G). 

1.  Captain  R.  S.  ALCOKE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  November  20,  1861,  as  Fifth  Sergeant, 
Company  K,  Fifty-Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Promoted  to 
be  First  Sergeant,  September  8,  1862;  First  Lieutenant,  September  17,  1862; 
and  Captain,  January  1,  1864.  Served  in  the  Third  Brigade  (French,  Zook, 
McDougall),  First  Division  (Richardson,  Hancock,  Caldwell,  Barlow,  Miles), 
Second  Corps  (Sumner,  Couch,  Hancock),  and  took  part  in  the  battles  of  Fair 
Oaks,  Gaines's  Mills,  Peach  Orchard,  Savage  Station,  White-Oak  Swamp, 
Malvern  Hill,  Antietam,  Pontoon  Bridge  at  Fredericksburg,  Chaticellorsville, 
Gettysburg,  Wilderness,  Cold  Harbor,  Petersburg.  Lost  his  left  arm  at  the 
elbow,  at  Fredericksburg.  Was  shot  through  the  right  breast  and  lung  with  a 
minie-ball  at  Petersburg,  and  was  mustered  out  October  17,  1864,  for  disa 
bility. 

2.  Captain  C.  A.  ALVORD,  JR. 

Served  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac. 

3.  Lieutenant-Colonel  SMITH  W.  ANDERSON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  March  3,  1864,  as  Lieutenant-Colonel, 
Ninety-Third  Regiment,  United  States  Colored  Infantry.  Served  under  Gen 
eral  Franklin  in  the  Nineteenth  Army  Corps,  chiefly  in  Louisiana  and  in 
guerilla  fighting.  Was  wounded  in  the  neck  in  a  skirmish  in  the  Teche  country. 
Mustered  out  at  end  of  war,  July  5,  1 865. 

4.  Captain  T.  H.  ANNABLE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  18,  1861,  as  Captain,  Twenty- 
Sixth  Regiment,  Massachusetts  Volunteers.  Served  in  the  Department  of 
the  Gulf,  under  Generals  Butler,  Banks,  and  Franklin.  Was  engaged'  at 
La  Fourche  Crossing,  Lafayette,  Pleasant  Hill,  Sabine  Cross-Roads.  Served 
on  staff  of  Generals  Franklin,  Sherman,  and  Emory.  Honorably  discharged, 
February  18,  1864,  in  consequence  of  disease  contracted  in  service,  while  in 
line  of  duty. 

5.  Captain  EDWIN  BISHOP. 

6.  Lieutenant-Colonel  GEORGE  BISHOP. 

7.  Captain  EDWIN  BLUNT. 
8.  Lieutenant  A.  SCHUYLER  BOGART. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant  in 
the  First  United  States  Chasseurs,  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volun- 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  457 

«  > 

teers.  Served  under  General  McClellan  on  the  Peninsula,  and  was  mortally 
wounded  in  the  knee  at  Fair  Oaks.  He  was  sent  to  New  York,  June  7,  and 
died  June  23,  1862,  in  the  23d  year  of  his  age.  His  commission  as  First 
Lieutenant,  a  promotion  for  gallant  conduct,  reached  his  friends  at  the  time  of 
his  death.  "Note.  — He  was  a  gallant  fellow,  and,  had  he  heen  spared,  would 
undoubtedly  have  made  his  mark.  J.  H.  KEMP,  for  Committee  of  Seventh 
Company." 

9.  Brigadier-General  R.  N.  BOWERMAN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  27,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Eleventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  Captain,  October 
4,  1861 ;  Lieutenant-Colonel,  Fourth  Regiment,  Maryland  Volunteers,  August 
1,  1862;  Colonel,  March  27,  1863.  Was  brevetted  Brigadier-General,  United 
States  Volunteers,  April  1,  1865.  Served  throughout  the  war,  from  Bull  Run 
to  Five  Forks,  and  took  part  in  the  battles  of  first  Bull  Run,  Savage  Station, 
Wilderness,  Spottsylvania,  Tolopotomy  Creek,  Cold  Harbor,  Weldon  Rail 
road,  White-Oak  Ridge,  Newport  News,  White-Oak  Swamp,  Laurel  Hill, 
North  Anna  River,  Bethesda  Church,  Norfolk  Railroad,  Dabney  Mills,  Five 
Forks.  Was  wounded  by  a  minie-ball  through  right  arm  at  the  capture  of 
the  Weldon  Railroad,  August  21,  1864.  Again  wounded  through  the  left 
arm  at  the  battle  of  Five  Forks,  April  1,  1865,  while  in  command  of  the 
Second  Brigade,  Second  Division,  Fifth  Corps.  Commanded  the  Maryland 
brigade  in  General  Warren's  Fifth  Corps,  Army  of  the  Potomac,  as  follows : 
battles  around  Spottsylvania  Court-House  in  May,  1864;  after  the  first  day 
at  Laurel  Hill ;  at  the  battle  of  Dabney  Mills  (second  Hatcher's  Run),  Febru 
ary  6,  1865;  and  again  at  the  battle  of  Five  Forks,  Virginia,  April  1,  1865. 
Was  brevetted  Brigadier-General  for  this  battle,  upon  recommendation  of  Gen 
eral  R.  B.  Ayres,  Division  Commander.  Was  mustered  out,  May  31,  1865, 
and  commissioned  Lieutenant-Colonel,  Thirty-First  Infantry,  United  States 
Army,  October  10,  1866.  Is  still  in  the  army. 

10.  Paymaster  C.  J.  BRECK. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  secretary  to  Commodore  Baldwin, 
United  States  ship  Vermont,  which  position  he  occupied  for  about  two  years. 

11.  Captain  A.  H.  BRITTON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant,  Com 
pany  K,  One  Hundred  and  Forty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 
Promoted  Captain  in  1863,  and  was  honorably  discharged  in  January,  1865. 

12.  Colonel  H.  S.  CHATFIELD. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  30,  1861,  as  Captain  Forty-Third 
Regiment,  New  York  State  Volunteers.  Transferred  to  Seventy-Eighth  Regi 
ment,  New  York  Volunteers,  as  Captain,  August  23,  1863.  Promoted  to  be 
Lieutenant-Colonel,  November  23, 1863  ;  Lieutenant-Colonel  (by  consolidation) 
of  One  Hundred  and  Second  Regiment,  New  York  Veteran  Volunteers,  July  12, 
1864;  Colonel,  June  5,  1865.  Served  in  Virginia  (Keyes's  corps)  and  at  the 


458  •  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

West  (Twelfth  Corps).  Took  part  in  the  Peninsular  campaign,  and  in  cam 
paigns  from  Chattanooga  to  Atlanta,  from  Atlanta  to  Savannah,  from  Savannah 
to  Raleigh.  Took  part  in  the  battles  of  Lee's  Mills,  Yorktown,  Williamsburg, 
Golden  Farm,  Savage  Station,  White-Oak  Swamp  (McClellan's  seven  days' 
change  of  base),  Wauhatchie,  Lookout  Mountain,  Mill  Creek  Gap,  Resaca, 
Pine  Knob  and  Lost  Mountain,  New  Hope  Church  (or  Dallas),  Culp's  Farm, 
Kenesaw  Mountain,  Peach-Tree  Creek,  Savannah,  Bentonville,  N.  C.  His 
regiment  was  the  first  to  enter  Savannah,  3  A.  11.,  December  21,  1864.  Was 
mustered  out  with  regiment,  July  21,  1865. 

13.  Major  J.  N.  COYNE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  December,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant  in 
the  Eighty-Seventh  New  York  Volunteers.  Soon  resigned  (the  regiment 
delaying  its  organization)  and  made  his  way  to  the  Excelsior  Brigade,  then  at 
Lower  Potomac,  and  was  mustered  in  as  a  private  of  Company  B,  of  the  First 
Excelsior  Regiment,  July  22,  1862  (having  previously  declined  a  commission 
offered  in  the  Fourth  Regiment).  Served  through  the  Peninsular  campaign, 
Was  Fourth  Sergeant  at  Williamsburg,  and  commanded  company.  Next  day, 
was  promoted  to  be  Second  Lieutenant,  and  was  mentioned  by  Colonel  Dwight 
for  gallant  and  conspicuous  conduct.  At  Fair  Oaks,  commanded  company, 
and  received  flesh-wound  in  right  arm.  Was  mentioned  "  for  bravery  and 
meritorious  conduct."  Was  captured  at  Savage  Station,  but  exchanged  before 
the  second  Malvern.  At  Bristow  Station  was  mentioned  in  Hooker's  report. 
At  second  Bull  Run  received  flesh-wound  in  the  hip.  December  27,  1862,  was 
made  Second  Lieutenant.  Was  at  Fredericksburg  and  at  Chancellorsville.  Was 
promoted  to  be  Adjutant  at  Gettysburg.  Received  a  scalp-wound  there,  and 
was  mentioned  as  follows  :  "Adjutant  J.  N.  Coyne,  First  Regiment  Excelsior 
Brigade,  particularly  distinguished  himself  for  coolness  and  bravery  during 
the  most  trying  moments,  and  fully  sustained  the  high  character  won  in  pre 
vious  actions."  At  Wapping  Heights  had  a  horse  shot  under  him,  and  was 
promoted  to  be  Captain.  Took  part  in  the  actions  at  Cold  Harbor  and  those 
around  Petersburg,  until  June  24,  1864.  Was  mustered  out  with  regiment, 
July  1,  as  Captain  of  color  company.  Was  appointed  Captain  in  Hancock's 
new  (First  Veteran)  corps,  and  resigned  June  12,  1865.  Was  brevetted 
Major. 

14.  Lieutenant-Colonel  ABRAHAM  DENIKE. 

Joined  Company  G,  Fifth  New  York  Volunteers  (Duryee's  Zouaves),  and 
was  commissioned  Captain,  April  20,  1861.  Served  with  the  regiment 
under  Butler,  and  was  at  Big  Bethel,  being  senior  Captain.  Resigned  Sep 
tember  6,  1861.  Was  commissioned  Lieutenant-Colonel  of  the  Fifty-Third 
Regiment,  June  6,  1862,  and  recruited  and  organized  the  same.  The  regiment 
was  consolidated  with  others,  and  he  resigned  October  12,  1862. 

15.  Major  E.  DONALDSON. 
Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  26,  1861,  as  Second  Lieu- 


ROLL    OF    HONOR.  V  459 

tenant,  Eleventh  New  York  Volunteers  (Ellsworth's  Zouaves);  First  Lieutenant 
February  15,  1862.  Mustered  out  with  regiment,  June  2,  1862.  November 
20,  1862,  commissioned  Second  Lieutenant,  Sixth  New  York  Heavy  Artillery; 
First  Lieutenant,  June  1,  1863;  Captain,  April  25,  1864';  Brevet  Major,  New 
York  Volunteers,  January,  1865.  Served  in  the  Second,  Third,  Fifth,  Sixth, 
and  Twenty-Second  Corps.  Was  engaged  in  the  battles  of  Wapping  Heights, 
Laurel  Hill,  Todd's  Tavern,  Po  River,  Salient,  Harris's  Farm,  North  Anna, 
Bethcsda  Church,  Petersburg,  Cedar  Creek,  and  served  in  the  Shenandoah 
campaign  also  from  September,  1864  to  January,  1865.  Was  A.  A.  G.  of 
"  Kitching's  brigade,"  honorably  mentioned  by  Meade,  and  served  in  other 
staff  capacities.  Mustered  out  August  24,  1865. 

16.  Sergeant  H.  DUNCAN. 
17.  Captain  JAMES  DURYEE. 

18.  Lieutenant-Colonel  WILLIAM  B.  C.  DURYEE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  First  Lieutenant,  Third  Maryland 
Volunteers,  and  detailed  as  Aid  to  General  Duryee,  June  11,  1862  ;  was  made 
Captain  and  Assistant  Adjutant-General,  United  States  Volunteers ;  was  at 
battles  of  Rappaliannock,  Thoroughfare  Gap,  second  Bull  Run,  South  Moun 
tain,  and  Antietam,  at  which  last  he  received  a  severe  gunshot  wound  ;  served 
afterwards  on  staff  of  General  Wqjbb  ;  at  Bristow  Station  received  special  men 
tion  for  "  coolness  and  bravery."  At  Mine  Hun  his  horse  was  shot  under  him  ; 
here  he  was  mentioned  for  "  prompt  efficiency."  Resigned  from  the  effects  of 
his  wounds,  December  24,  1863. 

19.  Major  EDWARD  EDDY,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  6,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant,  Com 
pany  A,  Forty-Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  State  Volunteers  ;  was  promoted 
Captain,  April  29,  1862,  and  Major,  September  29,  1863;  was  in  Sherman's 
expedition  to  Port  Royal,  November,  1861  ;  present  at  battle  of  Port  Royal 
Ferry,  January  1,  1862;  General  Benham's  operations  on  James  Island, 
South  Carolina;  battle  of  Secessionville,  June  16,  1862;  captured  by  the 
enemy  near  Warsaw  Sound,  Georgia,  March  23,  1863  ;  exchanged,  May  10, 
1863  ;  present  at  Gillmore's  operations  on  Morris  Island,  South  Carolina,  and 
assaults  on  Fort  Wagner;  then  appointed  Acting  Assistant  Inspector-General 
to  General  Seymour's  expedition  to  Florida;  present  at  battle  of  Olustec,  Feb 
ruary  20,  1864;  then  appointed  Acting  Assistant  Inspector-General,  Second 
Division,  Tenth  Army  Corps,  forming  part  of  the  Army  of  the  James  ;  was 
present  at  all  the  engagements  of  that  corps  during  campaign  of  1864,  in 
cluding  battles  of  Swift's  Creek,  Drury's  Bluff,  Petersburg,  explosion  of  the 
mine  in  front  of  Petersburg,  battles  at  Deep  Run,  Appomattox  Creek,  Fort 
Harrison,  Cold  Harbor,  Chapin's  Farm,  &c.  ;  was  mentioned  in  official  re 
ports;  resigned  October  20,  1864. 


460  ^  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

20.  Lieutenant  JOHN  H.  GARDNER,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  September,  1862,  as  Commissary,  with 
the  rank  of  First  Lieutenant,  in  the  Third  New  York  Cavalry;  he  joined  the 
regiment  at  Newborn,  North  Carolina,  and  remained  with  it  at  and  in  the 
vicinity  of  Newbern  for  eight  months,  when  he  resigned. 

21.  Lieutenant  J.  GRAHAM  GARDNER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1864,  as  Adjutant  in  the  Fourth  United 
States  Colored  Troops,  and  served  as  Assistant  Aide-de-Camp  on  the  staff 
of  General  Duncan,  in  Army  of  the  James.  Was  at  battle  of  New  Market. 
Resigned  October  13,  1864. 

22.  Lieutenant  W.  F.  GEISSE. 
23.  Captain  LEWIS  B.  GOODNOW. 

24.  Colonel  E.  R.  GOODRICH. 
25.  Brigadier-General  CHARLES  A.  HARTWELL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  5,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Eleventh  Infantry,  United  States  Army.  Appointed  Battalion  Adjutant, 
Eleventh  Infantry,  October  16, 1861  ;  brevetted  Captain,  United  States  Army, 
June  27,  1862,  for  battle  of  Gaines's  Mills,  Virginia;  brevetted  Major,  United 
States  Army,  June  14,  1863,  for  battle  of  Port  Hudson,  Louisiana  ;  brevetted 
Lieutenant-Colonel,  United  States  Army,  Mjjrch  13,  1865,  for  services  during 
the  war;  appointed  Colonel,  Seventy-Seventh  United  States  Colored  Infantry, 
afterwards  Tenth  United  States  Colored  Artillery  (heavy),  December  1,  1863; 
brevetted  Brigadier-General,  United  States  Volunteers,  March  13,  1865,  for 
services  during  the  war.  Mustered  out  of  volunteer  service  February  22, 
1867,  and  promoted  Captain,  Eleventh  Infantry,  United  States  Army,  October 
4,  1866.  Served  with  the  Eleventh  Infantry  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  from 
the  beginning  of  the  war  until  taken  prisoner,  while  wounded,  at  Savage 
Station,  Virginia,  June  30,  1863.  After  having  been  released  from  Rich 
mond,  was  assigned  to  duty  as  Aide-de-Camp  to  General  Banks,  and  accom 
panied  him  to  Louisiana.  Remained  with  Banks  until  the  capture  of  Port  Hud 
son  ;  served  as  Aide-de-Camp  on  staff  of  General  Ayres  for  short  time ;  was 
twice  mentioned  in  orders  for  official  services ;  participated  in  the  battles  of 
Mechanicsville,  Gaines's  Mills  (wounded  in  the  thigh),  Savage  Station  (taken 
prisoner),  Rappahannock  Station,  Bristow  Station,  Port  Hudson,  Louisiana, 
27th  of  May  and  14th  of  June  ;  Red  River  campaigns  of  1863  and  1864.  Is 
still  in  Regular  Army.  The  company  committee  add  :  "  The  following  in 
dorsement  is  written  upon  Colonel  Hartwell's  discharge  from  volunteer  service, 
dated  February  22,  1867  :  '  Character  without  blemish  as  a  gallant  soldier  and 
honorable  gentleman.'  PHILIP  H.  SHERIDAN,  Major-General,  United  States 
Army." 

26.  Captain  E.  J.  HENRY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Eleventh  New  York  Volunteers;  Captain,  February,  1862;  honorably  dis- 


KOLL   OF   HONOR.  461 

charged,  June,  1862  ;  Captain,  One  Hundred  and  Twenty-Seventh  New  York 
Volunteers,  August,  1 862  ;  served  in  Virginia  and  North  Carolina  (see  Captain 
Allison's  record,  in  Second  Company),  in  all  the  engagements  of  his  regiment. 
At  Devaux  Neck  was  wounded  in  right  foot,  permanently  disabling  it ;  was 
mentioned  in  general  orders  for  services  at  the  attack  on  James  Island  batteries  ; 
served  also  at  Suffolk,  Virginia,  during  the  siege,  in  Dix's  movement  on  the 
Peninsula,  and  at  Diascund  Bridge ;  also  at  Honey  Hill,  Salkahatchie,  and 
Coosahatchie ;  commanded  a  battery  on  Morris  Island.  Mustered  out,  July 

17,  1865. 

27.  Lieutenant  T.  W.  B.  HUGHES. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861  as  Second  Lieutenant,  "Union 
Coast  Guard,"  afterwards  Ninty-Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers;  was 
in  the  Burnside  Expedition  to  North  Carolina,  and  was  at  battles  of  Roanokc 
Island,  and  was  complimented  for  his  service  with  his  naval  battery.  After  the 
capture  of  Winton,  Lieutenant  Hughes  was  engaged  at  Newbcrn,  and  was 
severely  wounded  in  that  action,  his  naval  battery  suffering  severely.  He  was 
mentioned  with  praise  in  General  Foster's  report  of  the  action,  and  (an  un 
usual  thing)  in  the  official  report  of  Secretary  Welles.  Resigned,  on  account 
of  wounds  and  sickness,  August,  1862.  Was  offered  a  commission  as  Major, 
and  one  as  Lieutenant-Colonel,  but  was  incapacitated  by  his  wounds  from 
service. 

28.  Quartermaster  WILLIAM  D.  HALE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861  in  Quartermaster  Department. 
Served  under  Colonel  Herman  Biggs,  Chief  Quartermaster  of  the  Burnside 
Expedition,  and  was  on  duty  in  North  Carolina  under  Generals  Burnside  and 
Foster;  was  transferred  to  Department  of  the  Gulf  under  General  Banks, 
and  was  stationed  at  Baton  Rouge  until  he  resigned  his  position  in  July,  1 864. 

29.  Major  ROBERT  A.  HUTCHINS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September,  1862,  as  Captain  and  Assistant 
Adjutant-General,  First  Division,  Ninth  Corps.  Was  brevctted  Major  for  gal 
lant  and  meritorious  conduct  at  the  bnttle  of  the  Wilderness,  December  4,  1864. 
Served  in  all  the  campaigns  and  battles  of  the  Ninth  Corps,  East  and  AVest, 
particularly  at  South  Mountain,  Fredericksburg,  Blue  Spring  (Tennessee), 
Strawberry  Plains  (Tennessee),  Weldon  Road,  Antietam,  second  Fredericks- 
burg,  Walker's  Ford,  Wilderness,  Peeble's  Farm,  and  battles  in  front  of  Peters 
burg,  besides  a  large  number  of  skirmishes.  In  the  battle  of  the  Wilderness  he 
was  severely  wounded  in  the  groin  W  a  minie-ball,  while  gallantly  rallying  the 
broken  troops  of  a  division  of  the  Ninth  Army  Corps.  He  submitted  to  three 
painful  operations  for  this  wound.  Was  mustered  out,  August,  1865.  Was  men 
tioned  for  distinguished  gallantry,  for  coolness  and  presence  of  mind  in  every 
general  engagement  in  which  he  participated,  by  the  commanders  under  whom 
he  served,  and  was  particularly  mentioned  for  distinguished  gallantry  by 
General  Willcox,  in  his  report  of  the  battle  of  the  Wilderness. 

30.  Lieutenant  JAMES  H.  INGERSOLL. 


462  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

31.  Brigadier- General  SAMUEL  B.  JONES. 

32.  Major  P.  C.  KINGSLAND. 

33.  Captain  Louis  H.  LENT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  5,  1861,  as  Captain  of  Com 
pany  A,  Forty-Eighth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  De 
partment  of  the  South,  South  Carolina  and  Georgia,  under  Generals  T.  W. 
Sherman,  Hunter,  O.  M.  Mitchell,  and  Gillmore,  in  Tenth  Army  Corps. 
Was  engaged  in  taking  of  Port  Royal,  Fort  Pulaski,  and  Morris  Island.  Fell, 
shot  through  the  heart,  at  Morris  Island,  July  10,  1863,  while  acting  as  Major, 
and  leading  a  forlorn  hope  on  a  charge  of  Rebel  rifle-pits.  Buried  on  the  field. 
["  A  gallant  soldier  and  gentleman."  —  Com.] 

34.  Colonel  JOHN  P.  LEVERICH. 
35.  Captain  JAMES  H.  LOUNSBERRY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  April  23,  1861,  as  a  private  in  the  Fifth 
Regiment  (Duryee  Zouaves),  New  York  State  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be 
First  Sergeant,  May  9,  1861  ;  First  Lieutenant,  September,  1861  (General 
Orders  Number  102,  Head-quarters  Army) ;  Captain,  August  30,  1862.  Was 
present  at  Big  Bethel,  and  the  whole  of  the  Peninsular  campaign ;  was  taken 
down  with  the  fever  in  the  swamps  of  the  Chickahominy.  Rejoined  the  regi 
ment,  after  Antietam,  serving  in  all  its  campaigns  until  mustered  out,  at 
expiration  of  service,  May  14,  1863. 

36.  Sergeant  THOMAS  II.  MILLEN. 

37.  Captain  L.  R.  McDoNOUGH. 

38.  Captain  GEORGE  A.  MOREY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861,  as  Lieutenant  Company  E, 
Seventy-Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (Fifth  Excelsior).  Was 
promoted  to  be  Captain.  Served  with  the  Excelsior  Brigade  on  the  Lower 
Potomac,  in  command  of  river  picket-boats,  opposite  enemy's  positions  at 
Shipping  Point  and  Aquia  Creek,  and  was  in  all  expeditions  sent  out  from 
that  point.  Joined  McClellan's  army  at  Cheesman's  Landing,  in  1862: 
fought  in  battle  of  Williamsburg,  and  part  of  time  commanded  the  regiment 
during  that  battle  The  brigade  and  regiment  were  both  highly  complimented 
in  orders  for  their  behavior  in  that  action.  Fought  through  Fair  Oaks  and 
Seven  Pines,  and  was  then  employed  in  engineer  duty  in  the  swamps  until 
ptricken  down  with  malarial  fever,  of  which  he  died  about  23d  June,  1862. 
His  last  words  were,  "  O,  my  poor  boys  !  "  His  last  thought  was  of  his 
company. 

39.  Major  JOHN  D.  MORTARTY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  2,  1861,  as  Major  of  the  Seventy- 
Third  Regiment,  New  York  State  Volunteers.  Served  in  Virginia  through 
the  Peninsular  campaign,  at  Yorktown,  Williamsburg,  Stafford  Court-Housc, 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  463 

Baltimore  Cross-TCoads,  Seven  Pines,  Pair  Oaks,  and  the  Seven  Days'  Battles, 
and  at  South  Mountain  and  Cedar  Creek.  Captured  at  Piedmont,  October 
19,  1864,  and  paroled  February  10,  1865. 

40.  Colonel  EDWARD  MURRAY. 

41.  Adjutant  ALBERT  A.  NEAL. 
42.  Colonel  WILLIAM  NORTHRIDGE 

43    Captain  FITZ-JAMES   O'BRIEX. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  in  the  winter  ot  1861,  as  Captain  and 
Aidc-de-Camp  on  the  staff  of  General  Lander  commanding  in  West  Vir 
ginia.  He  was  engaged  in  action  soon  after  reaching  his  new  command.  In 
the  brilliant  skirmish  at  Bloomery  Gap,  Lander,  O'Brien,  and  two  soldiers 
dashed  upon  an  ambuscade,  and  captured  three  officers  and  eight  men. 
O'Brien  retained  the  sword  and  accoutrements  of  the  Rebel  captain  as  trophies, 
—  trophies  soon  to  be  borne  upon  his  own  coffin.  Two  days  later,  February  1 6, 
O'Brien  headed  a  body  of  cavalry  which  encountered  a  superior  force  of  the 
enemy.  He  met  the  Rebel  leader,  face  to  face,  and  two  simultaneous  shots 
were  heard:  the  one  fired  by  O'Brien  carried  instant  death ;  that  which  he 
received  pierced  his  shoulder;  but  he  still  rallied  his  men,  and  brought  off  all 
save  himself  unharmed.  His  wound  was  a  terrible  one,  and  after  great  suf 
fering  a  critical  surgical  operation  was  suggested  by  the  surgeon.  O'Brien 
writes  :  "  I  gave  up  the  ghost,  and  told  him  to  go  ahead.  There  were  about 
twelve  surgeons  to  witness  the  operation.  All  my  shoulder-bone  and  a  portion 
of  my  upper  arm  have  been  taken  away.  I  nearly  died.  My  breath  ceased, 
heart  ceased  to  beat,  pulse  stopped.  However,  I  got  through.  I  am  not  yet 
out  of  danger  from  the  operation,  but  a  worse  disease  has  set  in.  I  have  got 
tetanus,  or  lockjaw.  There  is  a  chance  of  my  getting  out  of  it,  that 's  all. 
In  case  I  don't,  good  by,  old  fellow,  with  all  my  love  !  I  don't  want  to  make 
any  legal  document,  but  I  desire  that  you  and  Frank  Wood  should  be  my  lit 
erary  executors,  because  after  I  'm  dead  I  may  turn  out  a  bigger  man  than 
when  living."  He  died  April  6th,  from  the  results  of  the  operation,  —  died 
at  the  threshold  of  a  grand  career,  —  a  great  poet  and  a  brave  soldier. 

44.  Captain  JOHN  OLDERSHAW 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  18,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant,  Com 
pany  K,  Eleventh  New  Jersey  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  Captain,  October 
11,  1863.  Served  in  the  Second  and  Third  Corps  in  Virginia,  and  took  part 
in  the  following  battles,  namely,  Fredericksburg,  Chancellorsville,  Gettys 
burg,  Wapping  Heights,  Kelly's  Ford,  Locust  Grove,  Mine  Run,  Grant's 
campaign  from  the  Rapidan  to  Petersburg,  and  all  the  subsequent  move 
ments  and  battles  in  front  of  that  city,  in  which  the  Second  Corps 
was  engaged,  to  the  surrender  of  Lee  and  the  Army  of  Northern  Vir 
ginia  at  Appomattox  Court-House  Served  for  a  time  as  Inspector- 
General  of  First  Brigade,  Second  Division,  Third  Corps.  At  the  battle  of 


464  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

Chancellorsville  was  detailed  on  General  Berry's  staff,  commanding  the 
Second  Division,  Third  Corps.  Was  complimented  on  the  field  by  the 
General,  who  said,  "  I  shall  not  forget  your  services,  sir."  General  Berry  was 
killed  the  next  morning.  Was  appointed  to  the  command  of  the  Division 
Pioneer  Corps  on  General  Mott's  staff.  November  15,  1864,  was  ordered  to 
the  Irish  Brigade  as  Inspector  under  Colonel  Nugent.  Was  with  the  brigade 
in  the  battle  of  the  29th  March,  1865,  outside  the  works,  when  it  repulsed  sev 
eral  severe  attacks  of  the  enemy,  the  men  standing  in  line  of  battle  for  three 
hours  without  shelter,  expending  in  that  time  about  one  hundred  rounds  of 
ammunition  per  man.  He  opened  boxes  and  distributed  ammunition  along 
the  line,  under  a  galling  fire.  Was  recommended  for  brevet  rank  and  men 
tioned  honorably  in  report  of  operations.  Mustered  out,  June,  1865. 

45.  Lien  tenant-Colonel  WILLIAM  PATTEN. 
46.  Captain  JAMES  PLANT. 

47.  Lieutenant-Colonel  EUGENE  ~F.  ROBERTS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  April  23,  1861,  as  private  in  the  Tenth 
New  York  Zouaves,  and  served  under  Butler  near  Fort  Monroe.  Resigned 
December  23,  1861.  February  28,  1863,  was  commissioned  senior  Captain  in 
Ulmann's  brigade  (colored  troops),  and  served  in  the  Department  of  the  Gulf 
under  Banks,  Andrews,  Ulmann.  Served  at  siege  of  Port  Hudson  ;  was  at 
battle  of  Plain  Store  and  fight  at  Redwood  Bridge  under  General  Grierson. 
Served  in  the  Department  of  Florida  under  General  Asboth,  and  on  21st 
July  captured  Fort  Hodson  and  Rebel  flag  with  two  companies  of  colored 
troops.  Served  in  expedition  to  Pollard,  Alabama.  Commanded  right  wing 
in  the  battles  of  Escambia  Bridge,  Mitchell  Creek,  and  Pine  Barren  Creek. 
Served  in  the  Mobile  campaign  under  Generals  Steele,  Hawkins,  and  Pyle. 
Was  in  the  nine  days'  fighting  and  assault  and  capture  of  Fort  Blakely 
and  Mobile.  Served  at  Apalachicola  and  Dry  Tortugas.  Was  honor 
ably  discharged  March  5,  1866,  by  expiration  of  term.  Was  brevetted  Major 
and  Lieutenant-Colonel,  "for  gallant  and  meritorious  services  during  the 
war." 

48.  Lieutenant  J.  F.  ROBINSON. 

49.  Brigadier-General  ALLEN  RUTHERFORD. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  a  Captain  in  the  Ninth  Regiment, 
New  York  State  Militia  (Eighty-Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers),  on 
the  27th  of  May,  1861  ;  was  promoted  to  be  Major,  7th  January,  1862,  and 
Lieutenant-Colonel,  30th  September,  1862.  Was  appointed  a  Lieutenant-Col 
onel  in  the  Veteran  Reserve  Corps,  4th  December,  1863.  Served  under  Gen 
erals  Banks,  Pope,  McClellan,  Hooker,  Burnside,  and  Grant.  Belonged  to  the 
First  Army  Corps  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac.  Was  brevetted  Colonel  and 
Brigadier- General  of  Volunteers  "  for  gallant,  faithful,  and  meritorious  ser 
vices,"  and  remains  in  the  army  as  First  Lieutenant,  Forty-Fourth  United 
States  Infantry  (Regular  Army). 


ROLL    OF   HONOR.  465 

50.  Private  WILLIAM  E.  SCIIENCK. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  private  in  the  Seventh  Regiment,  New 
York  State  National  Guard.  Served  in  the  Maryland  campaign  in  1863,  and 
was  lost  overboard  in  the  steamer  conveying  his  regiment  home  to  New  York, 
about  2,  A.  M.,  July  19,  1863. 

51.  Captain  F.  J.  STEERS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  December  24,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Company  C,  Ninetieth  Regiment,  New  York  State  Volunteers.  Promoted 
to  be  Captain,  April  9,  1864.  Mustered  out,  with  regiment,  at  the  end  of  three 
years'  service.  Served  in  Nineteenth  Army  Corps  in  the  Teche  country,  at 
Port  Hudson,  Donaldsonville,  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley,  and  in  garrison  at 
Key  West,  Florida,  Fort  Jefferson,  Tortugas,  and  Beaufort,  South  Carolina, 
and  was  on  detached  service  at  Ricker's  and  Hart's  Islands,  New  York  Har 
bor.  While  on  Ricker's  and  Hart's  Islands,  acted  as  judge  advocate  to  two 
general  courts  martial.  Served  also  as  Aide-de-Camp,  First  Brigade,  First 
Division,  Nineteenth  Corps. 

52.  Lieutenant-Colonel  GEORGE  H.  STEVENS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  April  7,  1861,  as  Captain  in  the  Second 
Regiment,  Wisconsin  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be  Major,  August  30, 
1862,  and  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel,  January  26,  1863.  He  served  in  Virginia, 
beginning  at  the  skirmish  of  Blackburn's  Ford,  and  then  at  Bull  Run,  where 
he  exhibited  the  greatest  coolness? bravery,  and  soldierly  qualities,  in  the  midst 
of  the  confusion.'  At  Gainesville  and  second  Bull  Run  he  was  also  con 
spicuous,  commanding  his  regiment  after  the  three  field-officers  were  wounded. 
Was  engaged  also  at  South  Mountain,  Antietam,  Fredericksburg,  Gettysburg, 
and  in  many  skirmishes  and  reconnoissances.  At  Gettysburg,  though  so  unwell 
as  to  be  counselled  by  the  Colonel  and  Surgeon  to  go  to  an  ambulance,  he  led 
the  left  wing  into  action,  and  received  a  mortal  wound  in  the  abdomen,  from 
which  he  died  July  5.  The  late  Colonel  of  his  regiment,  Governor  Fair- 
child  (who  lost  an  arm  at  Gettysburg),  says  :  "  He  was  a  faithful,  hard-working 
officer,  and  brave  as  a  lion,  never  flinching  from  duty  or  danger,  and  accom 
plished  in  all  that  went  to  make  up  a  first-class  field-officer.  He  died  as  a  sol 
dier  would  wish  to  die,  with  the  harness  on,  and  face  to  the  foe.  You  cnnnot 
speak  too  highly  of  his  soldierly  qualities."  His  remains  are  buried  in  the 
National  Cemetery  at  Gettysburg. 

53.  Major  ROIJERT  K.  STEWART. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  July,  1861,  as  Lieutenant,  Second  Regi 
ment  Artillery,  New  York  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant, 
September  25,  1861.  His  regiment  did  garrison  duty  in  the  forts  on  south 
side  of  the  Potomac  for  about  eighteen  months.  Served  under  General  Pope 
in  his  campaign,  and  was  slightly  wounded  at  second  battle  of  Bull  Run. 
St-rved  with  Grant  on  his  march  to  Richmond,  at  Spottsylvania  Court- House; 
was  twice  wounded,  once  in  the  body  and  once  in  right  ankle.  Was  cap- 
30 


466  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

tared  in  same  battle,  and  was  prisoner  for  over  ten  months  at  Richmond, 
Andersonville,  Macon,  Charleston,  and  Columbia,  South  Carolina.  Was 
honorably  discharged  from  the  service  April  5,  1865. 

54.  Captain  R.  BURNETT  SMITH. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  14,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Eleventh  United  States  Infantry.  Was  brevetted  Captain  for  gallantry  at 
the  battle  of  Chapel  House,  Va.,  October  1,  1864.  Resigned,  January  1, 
1866.  Was  present  and  took  part  in  the  following  battles  and  engagements  : 
siege  of  Yorktown,  Gaines's  Mills,  Malvern  Hill,  Petersburg,  Mine  Explo 
sion,  Weldon  Railroad,  Poplar  Grove  Church,  Chapel  House,  W.  W. 
Davis's  house,  Virginia. 

55.  Lieutenant-Colonel  HENRY  STREET. 

56.  Brigadier-General  F.  E.  TROTTER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  November  14,  1861,  as  Captain,  Com 
pany  I,  One  Hundred  and  Second  Regiment,  New  York  State  Volunteers. 
Promoted  to  be  Major,  July  15,  1862,  Veteran  Reserve  Corps;  as  Captain, 
June  15,  1863  ;  Major,  October  15,  1863,  Lieutenant-Colonel,  March  30,  1864; 
Brevet  Colonel  and  Brevet  Brigadier-General,  for  gallant  and  meritorious  ser 
vices,  March  13,  1865.  Served  in  the  battles  at  Harper's  Ferry,  Cedar  Moun 
tain,  siege  of  Washington,  and  Banks's  campaign,  Shemindoah  Valley.  Re 
ceived'  a  musket-ball  through  left  arm,  neai*  shoulder,  and  a  shell-wound  of 
right  foot,  and  a  glance  shot  on  left  knee,  at  Cedar  Mountain,  August  9,  1862. 
Contracted  fever  and  ague  twice,  typhoid  fever  three  times,  and  small-pox 
in  line  of  duty.  Was  appointed  and  confirmed  as  Captain,  Forty-Fifth  In 
fantry,  Regular  Army. 

57.  Lieutenant-Colonel  SAMUEL  TRUESDELL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  1,  1861,  in  the  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment, 
New  York  Volunteers  (First  United  States  Chasseurs),  as  First  Lieutenant. 
Promoted  "on  the  field,"  at  Fair  Oaks,  to  be  Captain,  for  gallantry,  June  1, 
1862.  Brevetted  by  Governor  Fenton,  Major  and  Lieutenant-Colonel,  "  for 
gallant  and  meritorious  services  in  the  late  war."  Took  part  in  all  the  battles  of 
the  Peninsular  campaign  and  all  the  battles  and  skirmishes  of  the  Sixth  Corps, 
subsequently,  including  those  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley,  except  the  Wilder 
ness  and  Spottsylvama.  March  30,  1863,  Acting  Assistant  Inspector-Gen 
eral,  First  Brigade,  Third  Division,  Sixth  Corps.  While  his  brigade  was 
temporarily  guarding  prisoners  at  Johnson's  Island,  Ohio,  he  was  appointed, 
by  the  general  commanding  United  States  forces  at  Sandusky  and  John 
son's  Island,  "Treasurer  of  the  Funds  of  Prisoners  of  War  "  on  Johnson's 
Island.  March  5,  was  appointed  Treasurer  of  the  Post  Fund.  During  his 
service  in  Johnson's  Island  performed  the  duties  of  Post  Quartermaster  and 
Post  Commissary  of  Subsistence,  during  the  absence  of  those  officers.  Was 
mustered  out,  with  his  regiment,  September  12,  1864. 


l'X    ROLL    OF   HONOR.  467 

58.   Colonel  CHARLES  TURNBULL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  in  September,  1862,  as  Colonel  of  the 
First  Metropolitan  (One  Hundred  and  Thirty -First)  Regiment,  New  York 
Volunteers.  Was  on  duty  at  Parole  Camp,  Annapolis,  and  afterwards  with 
Banks,  in  Louisiana,  his  regiment  being  the  first  to  land  at  Baton  Rouge. 

59.  Captain  WILLIAM  H.  UNDERBILL. 

60.  Major  HENRY  VANDER  WEYDE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  20,  1861,  as  Second  Sergeant,  Six 
ty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be  First  Ser 
geant,  January  1,  1862  ;  Sergeant-Major,  November,  1862  ;  Second  Lieutenant, 
December  1,  1862,  Captain,  February,  1865.  Was  brevetted  Major,  for  gallant 
and  meritorious  services.  Took  part  in  the  battles  of  Lewinsville,  Yorktown, 
Williamsburg,  Fair  Oaks,  Seven  Pines,  Malvern  Hill,  second  Bull  Run,  An- 
tietam,  Williamsport,  Fredericksburg,  Marye's  Heights,  Salem  Heights,  Wil 
derness  (where  he  was  captured,  but  escaped),  Spottsylvania,  North  Anna, 
Cold  Harbor,  Petersburg,  Winchester,  Fisher's  Hill,  Cedar  Creek,  where,  hi$ 
horse  being  shot  under  him,  he  was  thrown  down  and  captured,  imprisoned  at 
Libby  and  Danville;  exchanged  February  22,  1865.  Mustered  out  August  1, 
1865.  Served  on  staffs  of  Generals  Wheaton,  Russell,  and  Jackson.  Was 
honorably  mentioned.  General  Hamlin  wrote :  "  He  has  greatly  distin 
guished  himself  by  his  exceeding  gallantry  in  every  action  ;  I  know  fdtv  men 
whom  I  can  so  conscientiously  recommend."  General  Wheaton  says:  "A 
brave  and  accomplished  soldier,  having  served  upon  my  staff,  in  battle  and  in 
camp,  with  great  credit." 

61.  Adjutant  E.  VAN  NESS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  November  21,  1861,  as  Adjutant,  Eighty- 
Seventh  Regiment,  New  Youk  Volunteers.  Took  part  in  the  Peninsular  cam 
paign,  in  Kearny's  corps,  his  regiment  being  in  the  advance  going  up  and  in 
the  rear-guard  on  the  retreat.  Participated  in  the  skirmish  in  front  of  York- 
town,  the  battles  of  Williamsburg  and  Fair  Oaks,  and  the  skirmish  on  the 
extreme  left  on  the  25th  June,  in  which  his  regiment  lost  very  severely.  Sup 
ported  DeRussay  battery  at  the  battle  of  Malvern  Hill.  At  Harrison's  Land 
ing  was  detailed  as  Regimental  Quartermaster.  Mustered  out  by  consolida 
tion,  September  6,  1862. 

62.  Captain  THEODORE  C.  YIDAL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  5,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant 
Forty-Eighth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  First 
Lieutenant,  December  24,  1862,  and  Captain,  September  30,  1863.  Detailed 
to  Signal  Corps,  April  6,  1862.  Took  part  in  the  occupation  of  Hilton  Head, 
Port  Royal  Ferry,  Fort  Pulaski,  battle  of  Coosahatchie,  capture  of  Morris 
Island,  bombardment  and  assault  of  Fort  Wagner,  assault  on  Fort  Sumter, 
capture  of  Wagner  and  Gregg,  fight  at  St.  Mary's  Ford,  battle  of  Olustee, 


468  HISTORY    OF   THE    SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

Birney's  raid  and  occupation  of  Baldwin,  battle  of  Honey  Hill,  Devaux 
Neck,  and  Combahee;  occupation  of  Charleston.  Was  mentioned  in  general 
orders  by  Major  Beard  at  the  capture  of  Fort  Pulaski ;  in  general  orders 
by  General  Seymour  at  battle  of  Olustee ;  by  Captain  Town,  Chief  Signal 
Officer,  V.  S.,  in  the  following  terms  :  "  I  take  great  pleasure  in  mentioning 
the  following-named  officer  for  gallant  and  meritorious  service,  Lieutenant 
"Vidal,  for  efficiency  under  fire  before  Fort  Wagner,  and  in  the  batteries  on  the 
18th  of  July,  and  upon  several  other  days."  He  also  accompanied  the  expedi 
tion  under  Colonel  Osborn  to  assault  Sumter.  Also  mentioned  in  general 
orders  from  Bureau  of  Signal  Corps,  for  capture  of  Rebel  signal-flags  at  Bald 
win  ;  mentioned  by  Captain  G.  S.  Dana  at  Olustee,  and  by  Captain  Merrill, 
for  "  zeal  and  energy  in  discharge  of  duty."  Mustered  out  August  21,  1865. 

63.  Captain  WILLIAM  J.  WILLIAMS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  1,  1861,  as  Captain  of  Com 
pany  E,  Fifty-Sixth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  Virginia, 
in  Reyes's  corps,  and  moved  up  the  Peninsula.  He  was  killed  by  a  shell  at 
the  battle  of  Fair  Oaks,  May  31,  1862,  at  the  head  of  his  command.  "  The 
universal  testimony  of  his  fellow-officers  and  of  his  men,"  writes  one  of  the 
former,  "  is  that  he  was  a  good  officer  and  a  brave  man.  His  untimely  death 
was  mourned  throughout  the  command."  S.  Trucsdell  adds  :  "  A  true  gen 
tleman,  an  accomplished  officer,  and  a  gallant  soldier." 

if 

64.  Lieutenant  H.  J.  WINTERS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  4,  1861,  as  Sergeant,  Third  Regi 
ment,  Excelsior  Brigade.  Was  promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant,  and  served 
till  June  5,  1862,  when  he  was  permanently  disabled  by  being  thrown  from  a 
horse,  and  in  consequence  was  mustered  out  of  the  service.  Was  commended 
as  a  disciplinarian  by  regimental  and  brigade  officers. 


EIGHTH   COMPANY  (H). 

1.  Captain   JAMES    T.    BAKER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain.  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New 
York  Volunteers. 

2.  Paymaster  JOHN  M.  BAKER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Paymaster  in  the  navy.  Was  pro 
moted  to  be  Ensign.  Served  till  close  of  war. 

3.  Major  ROBERT  P.  BARRY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  14,  1861,  as  Captain  of  the  Six 
teenth  Regular  Infantry,  and  served  with  his  regiment  in  the  .Army  of  the 
Ohio  in  the  campaigns  of  1862,  under  Buell  and  Rosecrans.  Commanded 
his  company  (F,  First  Battalion)  in  the  battle  of  Shiloh,  April  7,  1862  ;  H 
all  the  subsequent  operations  under  Buell,  and  in  the  battle  of  Murfreesboro', 
under  Rosecrans.  In  the  latter  action  his  company  lost  two  officers  and 


ROLL   OF  HONOR.  469 

thirty-five  out  of  forty-six  men  killed  and  wounded.  In  this  battle  (December 
31,  1862)  was  wounded  in  the  jaw  and  arm,  and  was  captured  and  paroled. 
Was  on  invalid  duty  during  1863  in  the  Provost-Marshal-General's  depart 
ment  as  Inspector  of  the  State  of  Iowa.  Commanded  his  regiment  during 
most  of  the  Atlanta  campaign  under  Sherman,  and  took  part  in  the  battles 
at  Buzzards'  Roost,  New  Hope  Church,  Kenesaw,  Neal  Dow  Station,  the 
Chattahoochee,  Utoy  Creek,  and  the  assault  on  the  defences  of  Jonesboro' 
(September  1,  1864).  Resigned  his  commission  on  account  of  ill  health  con 
tracted  during  the  Atlanta  campaign,  and  was  brevetted  Major  after  his 
resignation. 

4.  Sergeant-'Major  CHARLES  AUGUSTUS  BARTON. 
Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Sergeant-Major  of  the California 

Regiment. 

5.  Captain  CLARENCE  A.  BLAKE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  March,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Company  A,  One  Hundred  and  Third  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in 
North  Carolina  with  his  regiment  on  picket  duty,  and  April  24th  was  ap 
pointed  Acting  Aide-de-Camp  on  Nagle's  staff  (First  Brigade,  Reno's  division). 
Served  in  Virginia  in  1862,  taking  part  in  the  battles  of  Kelly's  Ford,  Chan- 
tilly,  second  Bull  Run,  South  Mountain,  Antietam,  and  Fredericksburg.  Re- 
signed  after  Fredericksburg,  from  rheumatism  and  sickness  contracted  in  the 
campaign.  Was  mentioned  favorably  in  brigade  reports. 

6.  Lieutenant  N.  H.  BAYLIS. 
Lieutenant  in  the  Signal  Corps. 

7.  Major  HOLLTS  W.  BUCKLEY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  8,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant,  Bat 
tery  C,  First  Rhode  Island  Artillery.  Promoted  to  be  Captain,  Battery  D, 
October  22,  1864.  Brevetted  Major,  United  States  Volunteers,  March  5, 1865, 
"  for  faithful  and  meritorious  services."  Served  in  Virginia  and  at  the  West. 
Took  part  in  the  Peninsular  campaign  in  1862,  Grovetori,  Manassas,  Antie 
tam,  Fredericksburg,  Morgan's  raid  in  Kentucky  and  Ohio  in  18.63,  Burnside's 
campaign  in  Kentucky  and  East  Tennessee,  including  siege  of  Knoxville,  and 
battles  of  Lewins,  Campbell's  Station,  Blue  Spring,  and  Fort  Sanders ;  Wil 
derness  campaign,  with  Ninth  Army  Corps  in  Army  of  the  Potomac  in  May, 
1864  ;  Shenandoah  Valley  campaign  of  General  Sheridan  in  summer  and  fall 
of  1864,  including  battles  of  Charlestown,  Winchester,  Fisher's  Hill,  and 
Cedar  Creek,  until  October  22,  1864,  when  discharged  by  reason  of  the  expira 
tion  of  term  of  service. 

8.  Ensign  H.  D.  BURDETT. 
Served  in  the  United  States  Navy. 

9.  Lieutenant-Colonel  WILLIAM  L.  M.  BURGER. 
Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861,  as  Adjutant,  First  Regiment, 


470  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

New  York  Engineers.     Served  during  the  war,  and  was  Acting  Adjutant- 
General  on  General  Sickles's  staff  when  mustered  out  of  service. 

10.  Lieutenant-Colonel  CHARLES  H.  BURTIS. 

Lieutenant-Colonel,  Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 
11.  Paymaster  FRANK  CARGILL. 

Assistant  Paymaster,  United  States  Navy.     Served  about  two  years. 
12.  Captain  W.  J.  CARLETON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  21,  1861,  in  the  Forty-Eighth 
New  York  Volunteers,  and  appointed  Third  Sergeant.  Promoted  to  be 
Second  Lieutenant,  December  19,  1861  ;  to  be  First  Lieutenant,  February  21, 
1863  ;  to  be  Captain,  November  1,  1863.  Served  in  Virginia,  South  Carolina, 
Georgia,  and  Florida,  in  the  Tenth  Corps,  under  Generals  T.  W.  Sherman, 
Mitchell,  Hunter,  and  Gillmore.  Participated  in  the  reduction  of  Fort  Pu- 
laski,  in  the  sieges  of  Forts  Wagner  and  Sumter  and  of  the  city  of  Charleston, 
and  in  the  battle  of  Olustee.  During  about  one  half  his  term  served  in  the 
ordnance  corps.  Mustered  out  November  13,  18G4,  at  the  expiration  of  his 
term  of  service. 

13.  Major  JAMES  S.  CASEY. 

Entered  United  States  service  in  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant,  Fifth  Regi 
ment,  United  States  Infantry  (Regular).  Was  Post  Adjutant  on  Governor's 
Island  for  some  time.  Transferred  to  Fort  Warren  (Boston  Harbor),  having 
charge  of  Rebel  prisoners,  including  Mason  and  Slidell.  Transferred  to  Gen 
eral  Parke's  staff,  Ninth  Army  Corps.  Assisted  in  the  operations  before 
Petersburg  and  Richmond  until  close  of  war.  Stationed  at  present  at  Fort 
Sumner,  New  Mexico. 

14.  Major  OLIVER  COTTER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  May,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  in  the 
Thirteenth  Regiment,  New  York  State  Militia.  Served  three  months  at  An 
napolis.  January  20,  1862,  commissioned  Captain  in  the  Fifth  Regiment,  New 
York  Heavy  Artillery.  Was  on  garrison  duty  in  New  York  Harbor,  Balti 
more,  Fort  Monroe,  and  Maryland  Heights.  Took  part  in  Hunter's  move 
ment  up  the  Shenandoah  Valley  in  1864, -and  took  active  part  in  the  battles 
at  Piedmont  and  Lynchburg.  Was  honorably  discharged,  February  3,  1865, 
for  disease  contracted  in  the  service.  B  revetted  Major,  1866. 

15.  Lieutenant  THOMAS  W.  DICK. 

Lieutenant,  Eighth  Regiment  Heavy  Artillery. 

16.  Surgeon  WILLIAM  B.  EAGER,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  2,  1862,  as  Surgeon,  One  Hun 
dred  and  Sixty-Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  the 
defences  of  Washington  and  in  the  Banks  Expedition.  December  21,  1862, 
appointed  Medical  Director  on  staff  of  General  T.  W.  Sherman  Was  in  Red 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  471 

River  campaign  and  at  Port  Hudson,  and  at  latter,  in  charge  of  Division 
Hospital;  also  in  charge  of  United  States  General  Hospital  at  Franklin, 
Louisiana.  Mustered  out  by  consolidation,  February  17,  1864. 

17.  Captain  HENRY  C.  ELLIS. 
Sergeant-Major,  Sixty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

18.  Captain  WILLIAM  IRVING  ELLIS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861,  as  Lieutenant,  Second  Regiment, 
Rhode  Island  Volunteers.  Was  transferred. to  Subsistence  Department,  and 

promoted  Captain. 

19.  Captain  AMOS  F.  ENO. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  28,  1862,  as  Aide-de-Camp  on  staff 
of  John  S.  Fhelps,  Military  Governor  of  Arkansas.  November  10, 1862,  was  ap 
pointed  and  commissioned  Adjutant-General  of  Arkansas,  with  rank  of  Colo 
nel.  As  volunteer  aid  to  General  Osterhaus  took  part  in  battles  of  Champion 
Hills,  Edward's  Station,  and  the  Big  Black,  Mississippi,  and  had  charge  of 
raising  three  Arkansas  regiments  of  white  troops.  His  office  as  Adjutant- 
General  was  abolished  by  General  Orders  211,  A.  G.  O.,  dated  July  9, 

1863. 

20.  Lieutenant  ROBERT  O.  N.  FORD. 

Lieutenant  in  Marine  Corps  from  1862.     Is  still  in  the  service. 
21.  Captain  S.  J.  FOSTER. 

Captain,  Forty-Eighth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 
22.  Brigadier-General  II.  S.  GANSEVOORT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  14,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant  in 
the  Fifth  Regular  Artillery.  Promoted  to  be  First  Lieutenant,  Fifth  Artillery, 
March  1, 1862  ;  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel,  Thirteenth  New  York  Cavalry,  June 
20,  1863;  to  be  Colonel  of  the  same  regiment,  March  28,  1863  (?) ;  to  be 
Brigadier-General  in  1865.  Was  mustering  officer  at  Harrisburg  in  Sep 
tember,  1861  ;  and  as  such  mustered  in  several  thousand  volunteers.  After 
serving  at  the  Camp  of  Artillery  Instruction,  near  Harrisburg,  was  stationed 
at  Fort  Monroe,  in  March,  1862.  Served  with  Battery  C,  Third  Artillery, 
for  several  months  during  the  Peninsula  campaign,  and  in  Keyes's  corps  during 
the  "  Seven  Days."  At  Harrison's  Landing  was  promoted  to  be  First  Lieu 
tenant,  Fifth  Artillery,  and  served  in  Battery  C  of  that  regiment,  attached  to 
Meade's  brigade  of  Reynolds's  division,  Army  of  the  Potomac,  during  the 
operations  in  the  autumn  of  1862.  Participated  in  the  battles  of  Groveton, 
second  Bull  Run,  South  Mountain,  and  Antietam.  Remained  with  the  Army 
of  the  Potomac  till  1863,  when  he  was  granted  leave  of  absence  to  accept 
appointment  as  Lieutenant-Colonel  of  the  Thirteenth  New  York  Cavalry. 
Served  in  command  of  that  regiment  (in  Lowell's  brigade),  operating,  in  the 
region  southwest  of  Washington  and  east  of  the  Blue  Ridge,  against  guerillas, 
and  in  scouting,  raiding,  &c.,  until  the  close  of  the  war.  The  command  was 
mostly  independent. 


472  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

23.  Captain  JAMES  B.  GRANT. 

Captain,  First  Regiment,  New  York  Engineers. 

24.  Captain  F.  H.  GRANT. 
25    Adjutant  WILLIAM  HENDERSON. 

26.  Brigadier-General  JOHN  HENDRICKSON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Captain,  Ninth  Regiment,  New  York 
Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  Brigadier-General,  Veteran  Reserve  Corps. 

27.  Lieutenant  HENRY  W.  HUBBELL,  JR. 

Joined  Brigadier-General  H.  G.  Wright  as  volunteer  Aide-de-Camp  at  Annap 
olis,  October  12,  1861,  and  sailed  with  the  expeditionary  corps  under  Dupont 
and  Sherman,  participating  in  the  operations  which  resulted  in  the  reduction 
of  Port  Royal.  Soon  after  returned  to  New  York,  and  was  commissioned 
Second  Lieutenant  in  the  Fortieth  New  York  Volunteers.  Detailed  from  his 
regiment  to  report  to  General  Wright,  on  whose  staff  he  was  placed  in  Decem 
ber,  1861.  Participated  in  the  reduction  of  Fort  Pulaski,  in  the  operations 
against  Fernandina  and  Jacksonville,  and  in  the  operations  against  Charleston, 
under  General  Bonham,  terminating  in  the  battle  of  Secessionville.  Received 
honorable  mention  in  the  report  of  that  action.  In  July,  1862,  accompanied 
General  Wright  to  the  Department  of  the  Ohio,  remaining  there  on  the  staff 
of  that  officer  till  April,  1863,  when  Wright  was  assigned  to  the  First  Division, 
Sixth  Corps,  Army  of  the  Potomac.  Served  with  this  corps  at  the  battle  of 
Gettysburg,  and  in  the  operations  preceding  and  following  it  till  November, 
1863,  when,  owing  to  consolidation  of  his  regiment,  he  was  mustered  out  of 
service.  Appointed  Second  Lieutenant,  First  United  States  Artillery,  De 
cember,  1866. 

28.  Captain  JOHN  H.  HULL 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  30,  1862,  as  Captain  in  the  One 
Hundred  and  Seventy-Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  the 
Banks  Expedition,  and  in  the  siege  of  Port  Hudson,  and  the  various  battles 
connected  with  the  latter.  Resigned,  August  27,  1863,  in  consequence  of  pa 
ralysis  resulting  from  rheumatism. 

29.  Captain  JAMES  C.  HYATT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant  in  the 
Thirty-Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  and  took  part  in  the  battle 
of  Bull  Run.  Was  Provost-Marshal  of  Alexandria  until  November,  1861. 
Promoted  to  be  Captain,  Eleventh  Regiment,  New  York  Cavalry,  June  7,  1862, 
and  served  along  the  Potomac  on  patrol  duty.  June  30,  was  engaged  in  battle 
at  Shcpherdstown.  Was  in  the  reserve  at  Gettysburg.  Ordered  to  Depart 
ment  of  the  Gulf,  and  was  engaged  at  Doyle's  plantation  in  July,  1864,  and  in 
the  raids  to  Clinton  and  West  Pascagoula.  Served  also  in  Arkansas.  Mus 
tered  out,  with  regiment,  June  7,  1865. 


EOLL   OF   HONOR.  473 

30.  Paymaster  T.  GRANVILLE  HOYT. 
Paymaster  in  the  United  States  Navy. 

31.  Lieutenant  WILLIAM  C.  JACOBSON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1862,  as  Second  Lieutenant  in  Fifth 
Regiment,  New  York  Heavy  Artillery. 

32.  Lieutenant  E.  R.  JOHNSON. 
Lieutenant,  Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

33.  Private  J.  LAWRENCE  KEESE. 

Accidentally  killed  while  with  Seventh  Regiment  at  Washington  in  1861. 
The  circumstances  are  related  in  Chapter  X.  of  the  present  volume. 

34.  Captain  EDWARD  C.  KITTLE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  June,  1861,  as  Captain  in  the  Sixty- 
Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Resigned  May  2,  1862,  to  accept  a 
captaincy  in  the  Sixty-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Joined  the 
latter  regiment  at  Fair  Oaks,  and  served  throughout  the  Peninsula  campaign, 
the  regiment  losing  all  but  five  officers  and  eighty  men  in  the  battles.  Was  at 
Fredericksburg,  in  Caldwell's  brigade,  Hancock's  division,  Second  Corps,  and, 
Colonel  Nelson  A.  Miles  being  wounded,  took  command  of  his  own  regiment 
and  that  of  the  Sixty-Fourth  New  York  Volunteers,  and  was  among  those 
ordered  to  hold  the  town  until  the  army  had  crossed  the  river.  In  this  battle  « 
he  was  struck  twice,  —  once  with  a  canister-shot  on  the  left  arm,  partially  par- 
alyzing  it,  and  once  by  a  spent  musket-ball.  Was  mentioned  in  reports,  and 
recommended  to  promotion  for  this  battle.  At  Chancellorsville,  led  the  left 
of  the  skirmish  line,  and  touk  part  in  the  general  engagement,  though  he  had 
been  under  the  surgeon's  care  up  to  the  time  of  the  battle.  Took  part  in  the 
battle  of  Gettysburg,  and  the  subsequent  engagements  till  August  24,  1863, 
when  he  was  honorably  discharged  from  the  service.  In  1866  received  and 
declined  an  appointment  as  Captain  in  the  Fortieth  United  States  Infantry. 
Was  recommended  by  General  Miles  for  the  brevet  of  Major. 

35.  Lieutenant  E.  KIRBY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  19,  1862,  as  private  in  Com 
pany  H,  Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Artillery.  Soon  after  promoted  to  be 
Corporal ;  Commissary  Sergeant  in  May,  1863  ;  Second  Lieutenant,  June,  1863. 
Served  in  garrison  at  Baltimore  and  Harper's  Ferry,  and  took  part  in  the  bat 
tles  of  July  4  and  5,  1864,  at  Maryland  Heights.  Served  through  Sheridan's 
Shenandoah  campaign,  his  regiment  losing  heavily  at  Winchester.  Resigned, 
from  physical  disability,  in  November,  1864. 

36.  Captain  J.  N.  T.  LEVICK. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  11,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant, 
First  Regiment,  Excelsior  Brigade,  New  York  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be 
First  Lieutenant,  May  6,  1862;  promoted  to  be  Captain  on  the  battle-field, 


474  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

April  30,  1 862.  Served  in  the  battles  of  Williamsburg,  Seven  Pines,  all  the 
Seven  Days'  Battles,  including  second  Malvern  Hill,  at  second  Bull  Run, 
Bristow  Station,  Fredericksburg,  and  Chancellorsville.  Was  honorably  dis 
charged  April  30,  1863. 

37.  Captain  WALTER  LLOYD. 

Captain,  One  Hundred  and  Seventy-Fourth  New  York  Volunteers. 

38.  Captain  E.  S.  MANN. 
Captain  on  General  Ulmann's  staff"  in  1862. 

39.  Captain  WILLIAM  D.  MANSFIELD. 

Captain  in  One  Hundred  and  Seventy-Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volun 
teers.  Served  at  Port  Hudson. 

40.  Major-General  JOHN  M.  MCNEIL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Colonel  of  a  Missouri  regiment.  Pro 
moted  to  be  Major-General. 

41.  Major  CHARLES  E.  MEARS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  August,  1861,  as  Captain  in  the 
Fourth  Regiment,  West  Virginia  Volunteers.  Served  on  the  Kanawha  River, 
and  resigned  in  December,  1861.  In  March,  1862,  was  appointed  Major  of 
the  Marine  Artillery  Corps  raised  from  the  State  of  New  York;  the  regiment 
'  served  in  North  Carolina  under  General  Burnside,  and  afterwards  General 
Foster.  Was  stationed  part  of  the  time  at  Newbern,  and  for  some  months 
commanded  the  post  at  Roanoke  Island.  Participated  in  the  march  to  Tar- 
boro',  North  Carolina,  and  in  the  battles  at  Kingston  and  Goldsboro',  in  the 
fall  and  winter  of  1862. 

42.  Captain  ALBERT  V.  MEEKS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  August  31,  1861,  as  Captain  in  the 
Sixty-Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  the  Peninsular 
campaign,  and  took  part  in  the  battles  of  Williamsburg  and  Fair  Oaks.  Was 
wounded  in  the  latter  battle.  Resigned  at  the  close  of  campaign,  from  disa 
bility  resulting  from  wounds. 

43.  Captain  S.  A.  MELLICK. 

Captain  of  First  Regiment,  New  York  Mounted  Rifles.  Died  at  Fortress 
Monroe  in  1862. 

44.  Captain  E.  R.  MERRIMAN. 

45.  Captain  THEODORE  W.  MORGAN. 
Captain,  Ninety-Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

46.  Colonel  ALBERT    P.  MOULTON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  1,  1862,  as  Captain,  Company  F, 
Third  Regiment,  Pennsylvania  Reserve  Corps,  and  as  such  served  three  years. 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  475 

Took  part  in  the  battles  of  Drainesville,  Mechanicsville,  Gaines's  Mills,  Charles 
City  Cross-Ronds,  and  Malvern  Hill ;  also  at  Chantilly,  second  Bull  Run, 
South  Mountain,  Antietam,  and  Fredericksburg.  In  West  Virginia,  in  1864, 
took  part  in  the  affairs  of  Moorfield  and  New  Creek,  and  the  battles  at  Cloyd 
Mountain,  New  River  Bridge,  Piedmont,  Lexington,  Lynchburg,  Snicker's 
Gap,  Winchester  (July  25,  1864).  His  regiment  now  being  mustered  out  of 
service,  he  was  re-mustered  with  the  veteran  troops  as  Colonel  of  the  Fifty- 
Fourth  Regiment,  Pennsylvania  Volunteers,  and  took  part  under  Sheridan  in  the 
battles  of  Winchester,  September  17,  1864,  Fisher's  Hill,  Strasburg,  and  Cedar 
Creek.  Was  then  transferred  to  the  Twenty-Fourth  Corps,  under  Gibbons,  in 
the  various  battles  around  Petersburg,  and  the  general  assault  of  April  2,  1865. 
Took  part  in  the  pursuit  of  Lee,  and  was  engaged  at  High  Bridge,  or  Farrn- 
ville,  April  6,  1865.  Mustered  out  June  1,  1865.  Was  wounded  at  Fisher's 
Hill,  and  made  prisoner  at  High  Bridge,  but  released  three  days  later,  at  Lee's 
surrender. 

47.  Lieutenant-Colonel  H.  S.  MURRAY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  14,  1862,  as  Captain,  Company 
B,  One  Hundred  and  Twenty-Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was 
promoted  to  be  Major,  July  2,  1863,  and  to  be  Lieutenant  Colonel,  September 
19, 1864.  Served  in  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  in  Third  Division,  Third  Corps, 
under  Generals  Stoneman,  Sickles,  and  French,  and  in  Third  Division,  Second 
Corps,  under  Hancock  and  Birney.  Participated  in  the  battles  of  first  Fred- 
ericksburg,  Chancellorsville,  Wilderness,  Spottsylvania,  Cold  Harbor,  and  a^ 
the  continuous  fighting  in  which  the  Second  Corps  was  engaged,  from  May 
5,  1864,  to  October  27,  1864.  Was  wounded  May  3, 1863,  at  Chancellorsville, 
Virginia,  by  a  minie-ball,  which  entered  full  in  the  mouth,  taking  out  four  up 
per  and  four  lower  front  teeth,  and  lodging  in  the  back  of  the  neck.  Was 
left  on  the  field  for  dead,  and  was  so  reported  in  the  official  lists  of  casualties, 
Was  a  prisoner  two  weeks,  and  arrived  home  to  find  his  family  in  mourning 
for  his  death,  and  his  obituary  notices  published  in  the  newspapers.  Was 
again  wounded  by  a  shell,  and  taken  prisoner  at  Hatcher's  Run,  before  Peters 
burg,  Virginia,  October  27,  1864,  and  enjoyed  the  hospitality  of  the  celebrated 
Libby  for  four  months.  Was  exchanged  early  in  April,  1865,  and  resigned, 
the  war  being  over. 

48.  Captain  E.  B.  NORTON. 

Captain,  Subsistence  Department. 

49.  Brigadier-General  JOHN  H.  OLEY. 
Entered  the  United  States  service. 

50.  Paymaster  WILLIAM  H.  OWEN. 

Entered  the  United  States  Navy  as  Assistant  Paymaster,  September  30,  1862. 
Assigned  to  duty  in  the  "  rnortar  flotilla,"  October  15,  1862.  Served  under 
Admiral  Lee,  in  the  North  Atlantic  Squadron,  blockading  Wilmington, 
North  Carolina,  and  other  inlets  on  that  coast ;  also  served  under  Admiral 
Dahlgren,  in  the  South  Atlantic  Squadron,  on  duty  off  Charleston,  South 
Carolina.  Resigned  from  the  service,  October  8,  1863. 


476  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

51.  Adjutant  LEWIS  O.  PARMLEE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1862,  as  Adjutant,  First  Regiment 
Berdan  Sharpshooters.  Killed  at  Antietarn  in  1862. 

52.  Lieutenant  FREDERICK  T.  FEET. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant,  Com 
pany  H,  First  United  States  Sharpshooters  (Berdan).  Served  at  Washington 
and  on  the  Peninsula.  Took  part  in  the  battles  at  Yorktown,  Chickahominy, 
Hanover  Court-House,  Savage  Station,  White-Oak  Swamp,  and  Nelson's 
Farm,  Was  wounded  in  the  chest  at  Nelson's  Farm  at  eight,  p.  M.,  June 
30,  1862,  and  as  the  surgeons  pronounced  him  dying,  no  effort  was  made  to 
probe  his  wound.  Was  taken  prisoner  and  sent  to  Libby.  Was  exchanged 
under  a  special  flag  from  General  McClellan,  after  a  few  weeks'  imprisonment. 
Still  carries  the  bullet  in  his  chest,  and  is  in  good  health.  When  shot,  was 
from  seventy-five  to  one  hundred  feet  from  the  enemy.  Was  mentioned  by 
General  Barlow  or  General  Caldvvell,  commanding  brigade  in  Sumner's  corps. 
Was  officially  killed,  or  so  reported ;  read  his  obituary  with  interest  in  the  Brook 
lyn  "  Eagle."  Transferred  to  the  United  States  Marine  Corps,  in  July,  1862. 
Served  at  Morris  and  Folly  Island,  and  was  one  of  the  first  men  to  enter  Fort 
Wagner.  Is  now  First  Lieutenant  in  the  Marine  Corps. 

53.  Lieutenant-Colonel  CHARLES  EDWIN  PRESCOTT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  8,  1861,  as  Captain  of  Company 
C,  Eighty-Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  June  16,  1862,  resigned 
to  organize  the  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-Second  Regiment,  New  York  Vol 
unteers,  of  which  he  was  commissioned  Lieutenant-Colonel,  September  11, 
1862.  Served  at  Suffolk,  Virginia,  and  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley.  Resigned 
December  12,  1862. 

54.  Lieutenant  EDWARD  L.  POSTLEY. 

Lieutenant,  One  Hundred  and  Seventy-Sixth  Regiment,  New  York  Volun 
teers. 

55.  Captain  PHILIP  C.  ROGERS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant,  Fifty-Fifth  Regiment,  New 
York  Volunteers.  Served  with  honor,  and  was  mentioned  in  orders. 

56.  Adjutant  J.  F.  SATHERWAITE. 
Adjutant,  Twenty-Second  Regiment,  New  Jersey  Volunteers. 

57.  Colonel  CHARLES  E.  SMITH. 
Colonel,  Eleventh  Regiment,  Michigan  Infantry. 

58.  Lieutenant  CHARLES  L.  SMITH. 
Lieutenant,  Ninth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry. 

59.  Captain  ADRIAN  SPEAR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  private  in  Twentieth  Regiment,  Mas 
sachusetts  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be  Captain. 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  477 

60.  Colonel  PERCY  B.  SPEAR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  November  30,  1861  as  Captain  and  Com 
missary  of  Subsistence,  United  States  Volunteers,  and  was  assigned  to  Mar- 
tindale's  brigade,  Porter's  division.  Served  in  the  Fifth  Corps  from  its  or 
ganization  to  the  end  of  the  Rebellion,  and  acted  as  Aid  in  almost  all  its 
engagements.  At  second  Bull  Run  had  his  horse  killed  under  him  by  a  shell, 
and  was  severely  wounded  in  falling.  Served  as  brigade,  division,  and  (after 
October  24,  1862)  as  chief  commissary  of  the  corps.  Was  complimented  by 
McClellan  at  Hanover  Court-House  for  being  the  only  commissary  who 
had  his  supplies  up,  ready  for  issue,  the  night  after  the  battle.  The  chief  com 
missary  acknowledged  in  his  report  his  indebtedness  to  the  fine  administra 
tive  abilities  of  Captain  Spear.  Major-Generals  Meade,  A.  B.  Eaton  (Commis 
sary-General),  Butterfield,  Crawford,  Martin  dale,  and  Barnes  gave  the  highest 
public  testimony  to  his  conspicuous  services.  He  was  mustered  out,  Novem 
ber  22,  1865,  and  received  the  brevets  of  Lieutenant-Colonel  and  Colonel  for 
meritorious  services. 

61.  Captain  E.  N.  K.  TALCOTT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  20,  1862,  as  Second  Lieutenant, 
Company  E,  First  Regiment,  New  York  Engineers.  Promoted  to  be  First 
Lieutenant,  February  6,  1863  ;  to  be  Captain,  January  9,  1865.  Served  in  the 
Tenth  Corps  in  South  Carolina  and  in  Army  of  the  James,  and  after  March, 
1865,  as  Aide-de-Camp  to  General  Gillmore.  Was  present  as  engineer  officer 
at  the  various  corps  operations,  —  the  siege  of  Charleston,  siege  of  Peters 
burg,  and  the  movements  on  both  banks  of  the  James.  Was  on  duty  as  Depot 
Engineer  at  Bermuda  Hundreds  and  at  Fort  Monroe.  Was  mentioned  fa 
vorably  in  report  of  siege  of  Charleston.  Was  in  Florida  Expedition,  1865. 
Mustered  out,  with  his  regiment,  August  1,  1865. 

62.  Lieutenant  J.  J.  WEBBER. 
Lieutenant,  Fifty-Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

63.  Captain  J.  HOWARD  WELLS. 

64.  Lieutenant  J.  D.  WICKHAM. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant,  Ninth  Regiment,  New  York 
Volunteers.  Resigned  on  account  of  ill  health.  Died  soon  after. 

65.  Captain  GEORGE  C.  WILLIAMS. 
Captain,  Fifty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

NINTH    COMPANY   (I). 

1.  Captain  C.  J.  C.  BALL. 

2.  Sergeant  J.  BARRETT. 

3.  Lieutenant  L.  W.  BRAINARD. 


478  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

4.  Lieutenant  Wm.  L.  BRAMHALL. 

5.  Captain  THEODORE  H.  BUSH. 

6.  Lieu  tenant- Colonel  W.  B.  COAN. 

7.  Engineer  A.  M.  CUMMINGS. 
Served  in  the  United  States  Navy. 

8.  Lieutenant  BARRY  DAVIES. 
9.  Lieutenant  G.  D.  DAVIS. 

10.  Lieutenant  GEORGE  E.  DAYTON. 

11.  Sergeant  FORDRED  DRAYSON. 

Served  in  Virginia  with  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  and  was  killed  in  the 
battle  of  Cold  Harbor  in  the  summer  of  1864. 

12.  Lieutenant  CLINTON  EDDY. 

I 

13.  Captain  FRANKLIN  ELLIS. 

14.  Lieutenant  D.  R.  FRANKLIN. 

15.  Captain  SAMUEL  GIBERSON. 

16.  Captain  L.  O.  GOODRIDGE. 
17.  Brigadier-General  E.  E.  GRAVES. 

18.  Sergeant  R.  M.  HARMSTEAD. 

19.  Major  NATHANIEL  P.  LANE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  March  17,  1864,  as  Second -Lieu  ten  ant, 
Sixty-Sixth  Regiment  New  York  (Veteran)  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  First 
Lieutenant,  June  15, 1864 ;  Captain,  December  15,  1864.  Served  in  the  battles 
around  Petersburg,  Deep  Bottom,  New  Market  Heights,  blowing  up  of  the 
mine,  Reams's  Station,  August  28,  1864,  where  he  was  wounded  in  the  left 
hip  by  a  piece  of  shell ;  Hatcher's  Run,  Strawberry  Creek,  Armstrong's  Mills, 
Five  Forks,  Southside  Railroad.  Was  mentioned  by  General  Ramsey 
(Fourth  Brigade,  First  Division,  Second  Corps)  in  brigade  orders.  Mustered 
out  May  29,  1 865.  Brevetted  Major. 

20.  Lieutenant  J.  P.  MANNING. 

21.  Captain  HENRY  M \TTHEWS. 
22.  Sergeant  T.  A.  McCROSSEN. 

23.  Brigadier-General  N.  B.  MCLAUGHLIN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  March  27,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant, 
United  States  Cavalry  ( Regular  Army),  and  was  ordered  to  Fort  Monroe.  Pro 
moted  to  be  First  Lieutenant,  May  3,  1861,  and  to  be  Captain,  July  17,  1862, 
Assistant  Inspector-General,  Army  of  Kentucky  (Q.  A.  Gillmore)  in  1862. 


ROLL   OF  HONOR.  479 

Commanded  Tenth  Kentucky  Cavalry  in  pursuit  of  Morgan  same  year.  Oc 
tober  1,  1862,  was  commissioned  Colonel  First  Massachusetts  Volunteers,  and 
took  part  in  the  battles  of  Fredericksburg  and  Chancellorsville.  At  the  latter 
battle  believes  that  Stonewall  Jackson  was  killed  by  the  First  Massachusetts, 
Avhose  skirmish  lines  were  so  advanced  that  they  captured  during  the  same 
night  many  officers  and  men  of  the  enemy  who  advanced  carelessly,  singly 
or  in  groups,  believing  they  were  in  their  own  lines.  Was  brevetted  Major  in 
the  Regular  Army,  May  3,  1863,  "for  gallant  and  meritorious  services  at 
the  battle  of  Chancellorsville."  Took  part  in  all  the  subsequent  battles  of 
the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  in  the  Second  and  Third  Corps,  till  after  Spottsyl- 
vania,  when  the  term  of  his  volunteer  regiment  expired,  and  they  were  mus 
tered  out.  Joined  his  own  regiment  (Regular)  before  Atlanta,  and  was  eight 
days  in  the  trenches  there.  Ordered  again  to  Army  of  the  Potomac  as  Colonel 
of  the  Fifty-Seventh  Regiment,  Massachusetts  Veteran  Volunteers.  Was  ap 
pointed  September  30,  1864,  Brigadier-General  of  Volunteers  by  brevet  for 
gallant  and  distinguished  services  at  the  battle  of  Poplar  Grove  Church,  and 
thereafter  commanded  brigade  in  the  Ninth  Corps,  at  Pegram's  Farm,  Weldon 
Road,  before  Petersburg  and  Southside  Railroad.  At  the  assault  on  Fort 
Steadman,  March  25,  1864,  after  recapturing  one  battery  and  in  attempting  to 
recapture  the  fort,  he  was  taken  prisoner  and  sent  to  Libby,  there  remaining 
till  Lee's  surrender.  Was  brevetted  Colonel  in  the  Regular  Army  for  gallant 
and  meritorious  services  during  the  assault  upon  Fort  Steadman.  Was  mus 
tered  out  of  his  volunteer  rank,  September  1,  1865,  and  joined  his  command 
in  the  Regular  Army.  During  the  last  year  of  the  war,  always  commanded  a 
brigade  or  division.  Was  brevetted  Brigadier-General  in  the  Regular  Army, 
March  13,  1865,  for  gallant  and  meritorious  services  in  the  field  during  the  war. 

24.  Major  B.  B.  MILLER. 
25.  Engineer  EBWAKD  B.  MINGAY. 

26.  Colonel  R.  T.  MITCHELL. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  8,  1861,  as  Captain  of  an  "  un- 
assigned  company/  afterwards  in  the  Fifty-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volun 
teers.  Took  part  in  the  Burnside  Expedition  to  North  Carolina,  and  in  the 
battles  of  Roanoke  Island  and  Newbern.  Was  for  a  time  in  command  of  the 
regiment  in  North  Carolina.  Joined  Pope  (in  Ninth  Corps)  at  Slaughter's 
Mountain,  and  served  as  rear-guard  thence  to  Manassas,  involving  a  fortnight's 
constant  marching  and  skirmishing.  Acted  as  Lieutenant- Colonel  in  the 
battles  of  second  Mannssas,  Chantilly,  South  Mountain,  Antietam,  Sulphur 
Springs,  and  Fredericksburg.  After  a  campaign  in  Kentucky,  joined  Grant, 
with  Ninth  Corps,  at  Vicksburg,  and  took  part  in  the  siege  and  surrender  of 
Vicksburg  and  Jackson.  At  Jackson  temporarily  commanded  the  Thirty 
Fifth  Massachusetts,  which  regiment  was  the  first  to  enter  the  city,  capturing 
two  hundred  and  fifty  prisoners,  and  hauling  down  the  enemy's  flag  from  the 
Capitol.  In  January,  1864,  marched  in  command  of  the  regiment  to  East 


480  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

Tennessee,  thence  to  Kentucky  and  Maryland,  and  was  there  appointed  Inspec 
tor-General  on  General  Parke's  staff',  and,  August  14,  1864,  of  the  Ninth 
Corps.  Took  part  in  the  battles  of  the  Wilderness,  Spottsylvania,  North 
Anna,  Tolopotomy  Creek,  Bethesda  Church,  Cold  Harbor,  first  attack  on 
Petersburg,  Weld  on  Road,  Pegrarn  House.  Resigned  and  honorably  discharged 
October  18,  1864.  Was  promoted  to  be  Major,  September,  1862;  Lieutenaut- 
Calonel,  1863  ;  and  brevetted  Colonel,  1865. 

27.  Lieutenant  G.  C.  MOORE. 
28.  Lieutenant  THEODORE  OLIVER. 

29.  Captain  NELSON  PLATO. 
30.  Captain  FENTON  ROCKWELL. 

31.  Captain  JOHN  RODGERS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  7,  1862,  as  Second  Lieutenant  in 
the  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Took 
part  in  the  Banks  Expedition  to  Louisiana,  in  the  two  attacks  on  Port  Hudson, 
and  the  movement  into  the  Teche  country.  Was  wounded  slightly  in  the  leg  at 
the  battle  of  Irish  Bend.  Was  promoted,  February  9,  1864,  to  be  Captain  of 
Company  G,  Eighty-Seventh  Regiment,  Corps  d'Afrique  Engineers,  and  was 
stationed  at  Brazos  de  Santiago.  Had  a  skirmish  at  Clarksville.  Mustered 
out,  by  consolidation,  November  2,  1864. 

32.  Surgeon  A.  ORIMEL  SHAW. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  July  13,  1863,  as  Assistant  Surgeon  of 
the  Twentieth  Regiment,  Maine  Volunteers,  and  joined  the  regiment  in  the 
field.  Was  promoted  to  be  Surgeon,  November  10,  18G3.  Served  in  the  Fifth 
Corps,  Army  of  the  Potomac,  and  was  on  duty  in  the  following  battles  :  Rap- 
pahannock  Station,  Mine  Run,  Wilderness,  Spottsylvania,  Tolopotomy 
Creek,  North  Anna,  Cold  Harbor,  Petersburg,  Weldon  Railroad,  Peeble's 
Farm,  Hatcher's  Run  first  and  Hatcher's  Run  second.  Was  appointed  Acting 
Brigade  Surgeon,  December  1,  1864.  Resigned  February  22,  1865,  on  account 
of  disability  from  malarial  disease. 

33.  Lieutenant  A.  B.  SPIER. 
34.  Captain  T.  B.  STOUT. 

35.  Major  IVAN  TAILOF. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861,  as  Sergeant  in  the  Sixty-Fifth 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers  (First  United  States  Chasseurs),  and  partici 
pated  in  all  the  campaigns  of  that  regiment,  being  promoted  through  various 
grades  to  be  Captain.  Mustered  out,  with  his  regiment,  in  1864,  and  re-entered 
the  service  as  In  spec  tor- General  on  General  Hancock's  staff. 

36.  Lieutenant  GEORGE  F.  VAN  BRUNT. 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  481 

37.  Lieutenant  GEORGE  M.  WELLES. 

38.  Captain  WILLIAM  WHEELER. 
Killed  at  the  battle  of  Gulp's  Farm,  Virginia. 

39.  Lieutenant  D.  W.  WHITE. 

40.  Lieutenant  JAMES  G.  WHITE. 

41.  Major  W.  H.  WILEY. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  June  3, 1862,  as  First  Lieutenant  Company 
I,  Independent  Battalion,  New  York  Volunteers.  Promoted  to  be  Captain,  June 
4,  1863.  Served  in  South  Carolina.  At  the  siege  of  Fort  Wagner  he  was  de 
tached  as  commandant  of  Companies  E  and  B,  and  assigned  to  a  battery  of 
heavy  artillery  in  the  trenches.  Finally  commanded  the  first  battery  from  the 
fort,  consisting  of  Cohorn  mortars,  planted  one  hundred  and  fifty  yards  from 
Wagner.  After  the  capture  his  command  was  assigned  to  the  fort  as  artil 
lerists.  Mustered  out,  by  consolidation,  February  6,  1864.  Was  favorably 
mentioned  by  general  officers.  Brevetted  Major  "for  gallant  and  meritorious 
services  during  the  war/' 

42.  Major  THEODORE  WINTHROP. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  May,  1861,  as  Captain  in  the  Four 
teenth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry  (Regular  Army),  and  reported  as 
A.  D.  C.  to  General  Butler.  Took  part  in  the  battle  of  Big  Bethel,  June  10, 
1861,  and  while  gallantly  leading  a  detachment  of  troops  into  action  was  shot 
dead  by  a  North  Carolina  rifleman.  He  was  buried  where  he  fell,  before  the 
ramparts  ;  but  his  body  was  recovered  imder  a  flag  of  truce,  and  even  the 
enemy  praised  his  conspicuous  gallantry.  His  remains  were  brought  to  New 
York,  and  Colonel  Lefferts  ordered  that,  "  as  a  tribute  of  respect  to  the  memory 
of  Major  Theodore  Winthrop,  late  of  Company  I,  National  Guard,  who  lost 
his  life  in  a  gallant  charge  at  Bethel,  Virginia,  while  serving  on  the  staff  of 
Major-General  Butler,  an  ejcort  is  hereby  detailed,  consisting  of  the  First, 
Sixth,  Seventh,  and  Ninth  Companies."  The  Ninth  Company  passed  the  fol 
lowing  resolutions  : — 

"  Resolved,  That  in  the  death  of  Major  Winthrop  the  United  States  service  has  lost  a  valua 
ble  and  energetic  officer,  whose  place  cannot  quickly  be  filled  ;  one  who,  while  acting  with 
this  corps,  was  ever  most  forward  to  perform  every  duty,  however  arduous  ;  one  whose 
refinement  of  manner  and  dignity  of  bearing,  combined  with  great  amiability,  endeared  him 
to  all  his  associates. 

"  Resolved,  That  it  be  entered  on  the  minutes  and  indicated  in  orders  that  the  members  of 
the  company  will  wear  the  usual  badge  of  mourning  while  on  duty,  for  thirty  days." 

The  remains  of  the  gallant  officer  lav,  on  their  arrival,  in  a  metallic  coffin, 
in  the  officers'  room  at  the  Seventh  Regiment  armory,  until  escorted  by  his 
old  comrades  through  the  city  for  conveyance  to  New  Haven  and  the  family 
burying-place.  At  the  time  of  his  death  Major  Winthrop  wore  the  undress 
uniform  of  the  National  Guard. 
31 


482  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 


TENTH  COMPANY  (K). 

1.  Captain  HOFFMAN  ATKINSON. 

Acting  Adjutant-General  on  General  Smith's  staff. 

2.  Lieutenant  HENRY  BRADSHAW. 

First  Lieutenant  on  General  Seymour's  staff. 

3.  Lieutenant  MILNOR  BROWN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  August,  1862,  as  Lieutenant  of  Major 
Willard's  battalion  of  light  artillery.  The  battalion  was  stationed  at  Gov 
ernor's  Island,  and  subsequently  at  Fort  Schuyler.  He  aided  in  recruiting  this 
organization,  acting  as  Second  Lieutenant,  but  did  not  obtain  a  commission 
until  December,  1862,  when,  weary  of  the  delay  which  he  had  experienced  in  the 
artillery,  he  applied  for  and  obtained  the  commission  of  Second  Lieutenant 
in  the  One  Hundred  and  Twenty-Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers 
(Infantry),  commanded  by  Colonel  Ellis.  At  the  same  time  he  accepted  the 
position  of  Aide-de-Camp  on  the  staff  of  Brigadier-General  James  Bowen, 
and  with  that  officer  sailed  for  New  Orleans  on  the  6th  January,  1863.  There 
he  remained  without  seeing  active  service  until  the  early  part  of  the  following 
summer,  when  he  returned  to  the  North,  and,  just  before  the  battle  of  Gettys 
burg,  joined  his  regiment,  then  connected  with  the  Army  of  the  Potomac.  On 
the  2d  of  July  he  fell  while  commanding  his  company  in  the  midst  of  the  bat 
tle,  having  received  a  ball  in  his  forehead.  His  remains  were  escorted  to 
Greenwood  Cemetery  by  the  Tenth  Company,  Seventh  Regiment,  on  the  10th 
October,  1863. 

4.  Captain  THOMAS  B.  BUNTING. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  June,  1861,  as  Captain  of  a  "Light 
Company  "  (known  as  "Bunting's  Battery  "),  recruited  by  him  and  attached 
to  the  Ninth  Regiment,  New  York  State  Militia.  Subsequently  the  company 
became  the  Sixth  New  York  Independent  Battery.  Served  in  the  Shenandoah 
Valley,  under  Patterson  and  Banks,  and  then  all  along  the  Potomac,  guarding 
posts,  fords,  &c.,  by  piece  and  section,  with  head-quarters  at  Poolesville,  under 
General  Stone.  In  November,  1861,  reported,  with  his  battery,  to  General 
Hooker  on  the  Lower  Potomac,  there  being  put  in  command  of  the  artillery 
of  Hooker's  division,  and  so  continuing  till  his  resignation,  January  30,  1862. 
On  resigning,  General  Hooker  wrote  to  him  as  follows :  "  Captain,  I  am 
sorry  to  learn  that  your  connection  with  the  Sixth  New  York  Battery  is  sev 
ered,  and  that  I  am  to  lose  you  as  its  commander.  Since  you  have  been  in 
command  of  your  battery  you  have  given  me  no  cause  to  complain,  as  you 
have  devoted  your  whole  time  in  promoting  its  efficiency  and  character,  and 
when  off  duty  your  relations  with  me  have  been  no  less  agreeable  and  satisfac 
tory.  Again  I  regret  that  you  are  to  leave  the  service,  and  my  best  wishes 
will  follow  you  wherever  you  go." 


ROLL  OF  HONOR.  483 

5.  Major  JOHN  H.  COSTER. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  12,  1861,  as  Captain  of  Com 
pany  F,  First  New  York  Volunteers.  Took  part  in  the  Peninsular  cam 
paign,  in  Berry's  brigade  of  Kearny's  division.  Was  severely  wounded  at 
Glendale,  and  left  behind  in  the  field  hospital,  on  the  retreat.  Was  cap 
tured  and  confined  in  Libby  Prison.  Exchanged  July,  1862,  and  discharged 
from  disability,  arising  from  wounds,  March  3,  1862.  Appointed  Colonel  of 
New  York  Volunteers  by  Governor  Seymour,  and  gave  up  appointment  1863. 
Commissioned  by  Governor  Low  as  First  Lieutenant,  Seventh  California  Vol 
unteers.  Served  as  Aide-de-Camp  to  General  McDowell,  commanding  De 
partment  of  California,  from  November  10,  1865,  to  March  31,  1866,  his 
regiment  being  then  mustered  out.  Commissioned  Captain,  First  Arizona 
Volunteers,  by  Governor  McCormick.  Served  as  Aide-de-Camp  to  General 
McDowell  from  April  1,  1866,  to  June  13,  1866,  having  then  resigned.  Com 
missioned  First  Lieutenant,  Thirtieth  United  States  Infantry,  May  14,  1867. 
Appointed  as  Aide-de-Camp  to  General  McDowell.  Commissioned  Major  of 
Volunteers  by  brevet,  "  for  gallant  and  meritorious  services  during  the  war."" 
Commissioned  Captain,  United  States  Army  by  brevet,  for  gallant  and  meri 
torious  services  during  the  action  of  Glendale. 

6.  Lieutenant  JEREMIAH  W.  COSTAR. 
Second  Lieutenant,  Second  Regiment,  New  York  Cavalry. 

7.  Colonel  CHARLES  COSTER. 

Colonel  One  Hundred  and  Thirty-Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers, 
commanding  brigade. 

8.  Lieutenant  WHITTINGHAM  Cox. 
First  Lieutenant,  Fourth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry. 

9.  Lieutenant  JOHN  L.  CHURCHILL. 

First  Lieutenant,  Third  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry. 

10.  Paymaster  FRANK  CLARK. 
Paymaster  United  States  Navy. 

11.  Major  SAMUEL  DANA. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August  5,  1861,  in  the  Seventeenth  Reg 
iment,  United  States  Infantry,  and  was  engaged  in  garrison  and  recruiting 
service  until  April,  1863,  when  he  joined  his  regiment  at  Potomac  Creek,  Va., 
and  served  through  the  battles  of  Chancellorsville  and  Gettysburg,  receiving 
in  the  latter  battle  a  wound  through  the  leg  at  the  knee-joint,  from  which  he 
has  never  recovered.  Was  laid  up  several  months  in  consequence  of  this 
wound,  and  was  then  assigned  duty  in  recruiting  and  provost-marshal  service. 
Was  transferred  on  the  23d  of  September,  1866,  as  ranking  Captain  of  the 
Twenty-Sixth  Infantry.  Was  brevetted  Major,  United  States  Army,  "  for 
gallant  and  meritorious  services  at  Gettysburg,  to  date  from  July  2,  1863." 


484  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

12.  Lieutenant-ColonelJ.  LIVINGSTON  DE  PETSTER. 
Captain  and  Brevet  Lieutenant-Colonel,  Ninety-Sixth  Regiment,  New  York 
Volunteers.     On  General  Crawford's  staff. 

13.  Captain  EDWARD  D'HERVILLY. 

Captain  First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  For  list  of  campaigns  and 
battles  of  his  regiment,  see  records  of  Colonel  Leland  and  General  Pierson, 
below. 

14.  Lieutenant  WILLIAM  DIMMOCK. 

Lieutenant,  Eighty-Second  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 
15.  Lieutenant  DAVID  DRAKE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  August,  1861,  as  Second  Lieutenant, 
Seventeenth  New  York  Volunteers.  Adjutant  and  mustering  officer  of  the 
One  Hundred  and  Seventy-Sixth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  August, 
1862,  and  of  the  Thirteenth  New  York  Heavy  Artilleiy,  May,  1863.  First 
Sergeant,  Seventeenth  United  States  Infantry,  January,  1864.  Discharged 
June  30,  1865.  Served  thirty-six  months,  of  which  twenty-three  were  in  the 
field,  taking  part  in  the  battles  at  Spottsylvania,  North  Anna,  Cold  Harbor, 
Weldon  Road,  Peeble's  Farm,  front  of  Petersburg,  &c. 

16.  Major  C.  J.  DUBOIS. 

Captain,  Connecticut  Volunteers.  Brevet  Major.  Wounded  at  Gettys 
burg. 

17.  Captain  THOMAS  FREEBORN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  11,  1862,  as  Second  Lieuten 
ant,  First  Regiment,  New  York  Mounted  Rifles.  Was  promoted  to  be  First 
Lieutenant,  November  24,  1862,  and  Captain,  May  11,  1863;  was  at  Suffolk 
during  the  siege  by  Longstreet ;  was  shut  up  in  Bermuda  Hundreds  under 
Butler  in  1864;  was  at  the  cavalry  attack  on  Petersburg  under  Kur,tz  and 
Gillmore ;  was  present  at  the  various  engagements  on  the  Richmond  Railroad, 
the  attack  on  Drury's  Bluff,  and  the  engagements  at  Deep  Bottom  and  the 
north  bank  of  the  James,  by  Hancock's  command,  including  that  at  Fort 
Harrison,  where  the  regiment  was  dismounted  and  held  an  advanced  position, 
receiving  commendation  for  its  gallantry.  Served  on  Weldon  Railroad,  and 
was  mustered  out  with  regiment,  May  16,  1865. 

18.  Adjutant  CHARLES  A.  GADSDEN. 

Adjutant,  Ninth  New  York  Volunteers  (Militia).  Killed  at  Camden,  North 
Carolina,  April  19,  1862. 

19.  Major  THEODORE  K.  GIBBS. 

Field  service  as  an  officer,  commenced  December,  1861,  as  Lieutenant  in  the 
First  United  States  Artillery,  at  Fort  Pickens.  Was  in  all  the  engagements 
at  that  fort  till  the  capture  of  Pensacola,  when  he  commanded  Battery  A. 
Served  through  the  campaign  at  Port  Hudson,  in  command  of  First  Indiana 
Battery,  and  for  a  time  commanded  all  the  artillery.  Served  with  his  battery 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  485 

at  Morris  Island  and  in  Florida  at  Ten-Mile  Station,  Baldwin,  Saint  Mary's 
Ford,  Lake  City,  and  Olustee,  at  which  battle  he  was  wounded.  Served  also 
at  Drury's  Bluff,  and  Proctor's  Creek,  and  in  command  of  Battery  A. 
Fifth  Artillery,  at  Cold  Harbor,  where  he  was  severely  wounded  in  the  head, 
not  recovering  for  four  months.  Then  served  at  the  siege  of  Petersburg,  at 
Hatcher's  Run,  and  throughout  the  pursuit  of  Lee.  Was  brevetted  Captain, 
United  States  Army,  for  gallant  and  meritorious  services  at  Olustee  and  as 
^Tajor,  United  States  Army,  for  gallant  and  meritorious  services  at  Cold 
Harbor.  Major  Elder  says  :  "  At  Folly  Island  I  found  his  battery  in  splendid 
condition,  the  men  well  disciplined  and  drilled,  and  the  horses  and  material 
giving  evidence  of  the  best  care  directed  by  judgment  and  skill." 

20.  Lieutenant  RICHARD  B.  HALL. 
First  Lieutenant,  Second  Massachusetts  Battery. 

21.  Lieutenant  HERBERT  H.  HALL. 

22.  Lieutenant  JOHN  G.  HECKSHER. 
First  Lieutenant,  Twelfth  United  States  Infantry. 

23.  Captain  H.  H.  HOLBROOK. 

Captain,  Fifty-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.     Senior  Aid,  Ninth 
Corps. 
v  24.  Lieutenant-Colonel  EDWARD  P.  HOLLISTER. 

Lieutenant-Colonel,  Fifty-Seventh  Regiment,  Massachusetts  Volunteers. 

25.  Adjutant  EFFINGHAM  T.  HYATT. 
Adjutant,  Thirty-Fifth  Regiment,  Missouri  Volunteers. 

26.  Lieutenant-Colonel  WILLIAM  A.  KOBBB. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May,  1861,  as  private,  One  Hundred  and 
Seventy-Eighth  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be  Cor 
poral  ;  to  be  Sergeant;  to  be  Second  Lieutenant;  and,  October  17,  1863,  to  be 
First  Lieutenant.  Served  in  Sixteenth  Army  Corps  throughout  the  Mis 
sissippi  Valley,  took  part  in  Meridian  Expedition  under  Sherman,  and  in  the 
battle  at  Clinton.  In  A.  J.  Smith's  division,  stormed  Fort  De  Rassy  and  took 
conspicuous  part  in  the  battle  of  Pleasant  Hill.  Marched  in  A.  J.  Smith's 
corps  (styled  Smith's  guerillas,  from  their  rapid  raids),  famous  for  its  rapid 
and  long,  forced  marches,  all  over  the  West.  Took  part  in  the  battles  of 
Tuppello,  and  Hurricane  Creek,  Mississippi,  and  then  drove  Price  through 
Missouri  into  Kansas  by  a  seven-hundred-mile  march,  engaging  him  at  Frank 
lin.  Aide-de-Camp  on  brigade  staff  at  the  battle  of  Nashville,  thence  pro 
ceeded  to  the  siege  of  Mobile  and  assaulted  Fort  Blakely.  Promoted  in 
1865  to  be  Captain  and  Assistant  Adjutant-General  on  Davies's  staff.  Mus 
tered  out  March  1,  1866.  Brevetted,  at  recommendation  of  General  Thomas, 
as  Major  and  Lieutenant-Colonel ;  March  17,  1866,  Second  Lieutenant,  Nine 
teenth  Infantry  ;  in  1867,  First  Lieutenant  in  Thirty-Seventh  Infantry. 


486  HISTORY   OF  THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

27.  Captain  F.  W.  LEGGETT. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  November  3,  1862,  as  Captain  of  a  com 
pany  raised  at  his  own  expense  for  the  Ninth  Michigan  Cavalry.  Served  in 
Kentucky  in  constant  skirmishing  with  John  Morgan,  Everett,  and  other 
guerillas.  Served  in  Tennessee  around  Knoxville,  fighting  General  Jones,  at 
Carter's  Station  and  Zollicoffer.  Served  at  Knoxville  under  Burnside.  Was 
in  battles  of  Clinch  Mountain,  Morristown,  Bean  Station,  Blains  Cross,* 
Roads  and  other  engagements,  for  which  he  received  commendation  of  his 
superior  officers. 

28.  Lieutenant-Colonel  FRANCIS  L.  LELAND. 

Entered  the  First  New  York  Volunteers  in  1861,  as  a  line  officer,  and  was 
promoted  to  be  Major  and  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel.  Served  with  the  Army 
of  the  Potomac  on  the  Peninsula,  and  through  the  Maryland  campaign.  On 
the  Peninsula,  the  First  New  York  Volunteers  was  on  picket  in  the  rear  of  the 
retreating  army  through  the  29th  of  June,  and,  on  the  30th,  being  engaged  at 
Glendale  or  Charles  City  Cross-Roads,  lost,  in  killed  and  wounded  (including 
all  its  color-guard,  comprising  four  sergeants  and  eleven  corporals),  two  hun 
dred  and  eighty  men.  For  other  facts,  see  record  of  General  Pierson,  below. 

29.  Major  THOMAS  LORD,  JR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October  8, 1862,  as  Aide-de-Camp  and  As 
sistant  Adjutant-General  on  the  staff  of  General  Dix,  in  Virginia  and  De 
partment  of  the  East,  until  July,  1865.  Was  then  ordered  to  staff  of  General 
Hooker,  as  Assistant  Adjutant-General.  Mustered  out  November,  1865. 
Brevetted  Major,  United  States  Volunteers,  for  meritorious  services,  to  date 
July  7,  1864. 

30.  Captain  HENRY  W.  MILLER. 

Captain,  One  Hundred  and  First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

31.  Captain  GEORGE  M.  MILLER. 
Captain,  on  General  Meagher's  staff. 

32.  Major  R.  L.  MORRIS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  July,  1861,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
Eighteenth  Infantry.  Took  the  field  December,  1861.  Served  at  the 
siege  of  Corinth,  the  battles  of  Perryville,  Stone  River,  Buzzards'  Roost, 
Resaca,  New  Hope  Church,  Kenesaw  Mountain,  and  at  many  skirmishes  dur 
ing  Buell's  and  Sherman's  campaigns.  Served  for  a  short  time  on  the  staffs 
of  Generals  Townsend  and  L.  Thomas.  Promoted  to  be  Captain,  De 
cember  31,  1862;  brevetted  Major,  United  States  Army.  Is  still  in  the  army. 

33.  Captain  ROBERT  MORRIS. 
Captain,  First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers. 

34.  Major  NATHAN  F.  Moss. 
Major,  Eleventh  Regiment,  Rhode  Island  Volunteers. 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  487 

35.  Lieutenant  J.  DELANCEY  NEILL. 
Captain  on  General  Duryea's  staff. 

36.  Brigadier-General  J.  FREDERICK  PIERSON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  27,  1861,  in  the  First  Regiment,  New- 
York  Volunteers.  Was  promoted  to  be  Major,  July  29,  1861  ;  Lieutenant- 
Colonel,  September  10,  1861  ;  Colonel,  October  9,  1862.  Was  made  Brigadier- 
General  by  brevet,  March  13,  1865.  Fought  the  regiment  in  the  following 
engagements :  Big  Bethel,  Hampton  Roads,  Fair  Oaks,  Peach  Orchard,  Glen- 
dale  or  Charles  City  Cross-Roads,  Malvern  Hill,  second  Bull  Run,  Chan- 
tillv,  Fredericksburg,  second  Fredericksburg,  Chancellorsville,  besides  many 
smaller  affairs.  Part  of  the  time  commanded  the  Third  Brigade,  First 
Division,  Third  Corps.  Was  wounded  at  Glendale  (where  his  horse  was 
killed  under  him),  and  was  shot  through  the  shoulder  and  chest  at  Chancel 
lorsville,  while  leading  a  charge.  Mustered  out,  with  his  regiment,  May,  1863. 
Again  sworn  in,  in  June,  1863,  as  Aid  to  General  Hall,  who  was  sent  into 
Maryland  with  New  York  militia,  and  served  three  months. 

37.  Lieutenant-Colonef  HENRY  L.  PIERSON. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  September  6, 1862,  as  Adjutant,  One  Hun 
dred  and  Forty-First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  November  1,  1862, 
was  appointed  Captain  and  Assistant  Adjutant-General,  United  States  Volun 
teers.  December  13,  1863,  Lieutenant-Colonel,  Second  New  Orleans  Volun 
teers.  Resigned  July  1,  1864.  Served  in  Department  of  Gulf. 

38.  Colonel  CLIFTON  K.  PRENTISS. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  March  30,  1862,  as  private,  Company  I, 
Fifth  Regiment,  Maryland  Volunteers.  July  30,  1862,  Second  Lieutenant, 
Sixth  Maryland  Volunteers.  August  27,  1862,  Captain.  December  2,  1862, 
Major.  Served  at  Winchester,  August  13,  1863,  a«d  at  Opequan  Creek  ;  also 
at  Locust  Grove,  November  27,  1863.  Was  in  battles  of  Wilderness  and 
Grant's  campaign,  including  Cold  Harbor  and  Petersburg.  Then  sent  to 
Shenandoah  Valley,  serving  with  great  distinction  at  Fisher's  Hill,  Cedar 
Creek,  and  Fort  Stedman.  On  the  1st  of  April  was  in  the  grand  charge  at 
Petersburg,  where  he  was  mortally  wounded,  the  ball  striking  him  in  the  chest ; 
but  he  lingered  several  months.  Was  recommended  for  gallantry  and  for  a 
"  position  in  the  Regular  Army,"  by  Generals  Wright,  Ricketts,  Seymour, 
and  Keifer.  Brevetted  Lieutenant-Colonel  and  Colonel  of  Volunteers,  April  2, 
1865,  for  gallant  and  meritorious  services  at  Petersburg. 

39.  Captain  J.  HENRY  PLUME. 

Captain,  Assistant  Adjutant-General,  New  Jersey  Volunteers.  Killed  at 
Manassas,  August  29,  1862. 

40.  Adjutant  FRITZ  ROBERT. 
Adjutant,  Fourth  Regiment,  New  York  Cavalry. 


488  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH   REGIMENT. 

41.  Paymaster  WILLIAM  H.  REID. 

Acting  Assistant  Paymaster,  United  States  Navy. 

42.  Captain  HENRY  A.  SAND. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  October,  1861,  as  Captain  in  the  One 
Hundred  and  Third  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Joined  Burnside  in 
North  Carolina,  and  served  with  distinction  in  several  expeditions.  Went 
with  Burnside  to  Virginia,  and  served  for  a  time  as  Provost-Marshal  at  Fal- 
mouth.  Was  in  the  reserve  at  South  Mountain.  At  Antietam  charged  in 
front  of  his  regiment,  and,  the  color-bearer  falling  under  a  terrific  fire,  he  took 
the  flag  and  planted  it  far  ahead,  calling,  "  Come  on,  boys  !  come  on,  come  up 
to  that!  "  he  fell,  his  thigh  shattered  by  a  cannon-ball,  in  the  moment  of  vic 
tory;  and,  after  enduring  his  sufferings  with  great  fortitude,  died  on  the  night 
of  the  30th  of  October,  1862.  His  old  comrades  of  Company  K  followed  his 
remains  to  their  resting-place  in  Greenwood. 

43.  Captain  ROBERT  S.  SEABURY. 
Captain  on  General  Owen's  staff.     Killed  at  Spottsylvania,  May  6,  1864. 

44.  Major  WILLIAM  H.  SCHIEFFELIN. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  August,  18G2,  as  Major  in  the  First 
Regiment,  New  York  Mounted  Rifles.  Served  at  Suffolk  during  Longstreet's 
siege,  and  was  constantly  on  scouting  and  skirmishing  duty  for  a  year  in  Vir 
ginia  and  North  Carolina.  Served  also  as  volunteer  Aid  on  General  C.  C. 

Dodge's  staff. 

45.  Captain  F.  A.  SCHERMERHORN. 

First  Lieutenant  and  Brevet  Captain  on  General  Griffin's  staff. 

46.  Lieutenant  DAVID  J.  SCOTT. 

First  Lieutenant,   Tenth  Regiment,  United  States   Infantry,  on  General 

Corse's  staff. 

47.  Adjutant  W.  H.  M.  SISTARE. 

Adjutant,  New  York  Volunteers. 

48.  Captain  J.  STEWART  SLASSON. 
Captain,  on  General  Augur's  staff. 

49.  Lieutenant  WRIGHT  STAPLES. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Lieutenant,  in  the  Eleventh  United  States 
Infantry.  Killed  at  the  battle  of  the  Wilderness.  Against  the  urgent  remon 
strances  of  the  surgeon  and  of  his  brother-officers,  he  rose  from  a  sick-bed  in 
the  field  hospital  to  join  his  comrades  in  action,  and  fell,  while  rallying  his 
men  in  face  of  the  enemy.  His  commanding  officer  declared  that  the  regiment 
—  and  its  record  is  equal  to  any  —  possessed  no  braver  man  or  better  officer. 
His  comrades  all  testify  to  his  personal  courage,  his  high  sense  of  honor,  and 
his  manly  disposition.  His  Company,  K,  Seventh  Regiment,  passed  resolu 
tions  of  respect  to  his  memory. 


ROLL   OF   HONOR.  489 

50.  Adjutant  J.  BRAINERD  TAYLOR. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  May  24,  1861,  as  Adjutant,  Seventeenth 
Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  Served  in  garrison  at  Washington.  Re 
signed  in  spring  of  1862.  Enlisted  in  Twenty-Fifth  Regiment,  New  York 
Cavalry,  was  made  First  Sergeant,  and  served  at  Washington,  in  Early's 
raid,  and  in  Shenandoah  Valley,  in  1864,  at  Cedar  Creek,  Salem,  Newtown, 
Halltown,  Charlestown,  and  Winchester. 

51.  Sergeant-Major  ED.  F.  THOMPSON. 

Sergeant-Major,  Eighteenth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry. 

52.  Lieutenant  W.  W.  TOMPKINS. 

First  Lieutenant,  Third  Regiment,  United  States  Artillery. 

53.  Surgeon  A.  VAN  CORTLANDT. 

Surgeon,  United  States  Army. 

54.  Major  STEPHEN  VAN  RENSSELAER. 

Major,  Seventeenth  Regiment,  United  States  Infantry. 

55.  Captain  E.  B.  VAN  WINKLE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service,  December  27,  1862,  as  First  Lieutenant, 
One  Hundred  and  Third  New  York  Volunteers,  and  was  detailed  as  Aide-de- 
Camp  to  General  Viele.  Served  also  with  regiment  at  Folly  Island,  and  on 
staffs  of  Generals  Gibbon,  Gillmore,  mid  Hatch.  Was  engaged  at  Bloody 
Bridge,  Honey  Hill,  and  Combahee.  February  2,  1865,  was  commissioned 
Captain  of  the  One  Hundred  and  Third  Regiment,  United  States  Colored 
troops.  Resigned  July  11,  1865. 

56.  Brigadier-General  EGBERT  L.  VIELE. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  in  1861  as  Brigadier-General,  United 
States  Volunteers.  Proceeded  with  his  brigade  on  the  Dupont  Expedition, 
which  captured  Port  Royal.  Took  prominent  part  in  constructing  the  bat 
teries  which  reduced  Fort  Pulaski.  Was  engaged  in  the  occupation  of  Nor 
folk,  under  Wool,  and  was  made  Military  Governor  of  the  city.  Resigned 
in  1863. 

57.  Adjutant  W.  S.  WALLACE. 

Adjutant,  First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  For  list  of  campaigns 
and  battles  of  First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  see  records  of  General 
Pierson  and  Colonel  Leland,  above. 

58.  Major  O.  WETMORE,  JR. 
Major,  Thirteenth  Regiment,  New  York  Artillery. 

59.  Private  EDWARD  B.  WELLES. 


490  HISTORY   OF   THE   SEVENTH  REGIMENT. 

60.  Adjutant  JOHN  C.  WHITE. 

Adjutant,  First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers.  For  list  of  campaigns 
and  battles  of  First  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  see  records  of  General 
Pierson  and  Colonel  Leland,  above. 

61.  Captain  JOHN  B.  WINSLOW. 

Entered  the  United  States  service  as  Corporal  in  Battery  K  (Bunting's  Bat 
tery),  Ninth  New  York  State  Militia,  afterwards  the  Sixth  New  York  Inde 
pendent  Battery,  and  served  with  it  till  in  front  of  Yorktown ;  was  then  com 
missioned  Captain  and  Assistant-Quartermaster,  United  States  Volunteers,  to 
date  from  April  14,  1861,  and  as  such  received,  issued,  and  paid  for  all  the 
forage  used  by  McClellan's  army  on  the  Peninsula.  Served  afterwards  in  the 
Fifth  Corps,  successively  as  Brigade  or  Division  Quartermaster  on  the  staffs 
of  General  Barnes,  General  Humphries,  Captain  A.  P.  Martin,  of  Third 
Massachusetts  Battery,  commanding  the  Artillery  Brigade  of  the  Fifth  Corps, 
General  J.  J.  Bartlett,  and  General  Griffin.  Was  then,  in  December,  1864, 
ordered  to  Sherman's  army,  and  reported  successively  to  the  staffs  of  Generals 
Easton,  Howard,  and  Logan.  Thereafter  served  at  Louisville,  Ky.,  and 
Columbus,  Ga.  Was  honorably  discharged,  January  8,  1867.  Was  present 
at  the  battles  of  Ball's  Bluff,  Fredericksburg,  Chancellorsville  (in  which  his 
horse  was  killed),  Gettysburg,  and  most  of  the  battles  from  the  Wilderness  to 
Petersburg. 

62.  Engineer  CHARLES  WINTER. 
Served  in  the  United  States  navy  during  the  war. 


KOLL   OF   HONOR.  491 

NAMES    AND    BANK 

OF    THE    MEMBERS    OF    THE 

SEVENTH  REGIMENT,  NATIONAL  GUARD, 

WHO    WERE    KILLED    OR    DIED    OF    DISEASE    OR    WOUNDS    IN    THE 
UNITED    STATES    SERVICE. 


First  Company  (A.) 

1.  Captain  George  B.  Le  Fort,  killed  at  the  Wilderness,  Va. 

2.  Captain  Theodore  Russell,  killed  at  Fair  Oaks,  Va. 

3.  Captain  J.  J.  Trenor,  killed  at  Fair  Oaks,  Va. 

Second  Company  (B). 

4.  Captain  Henry  H.  Alden,  killed  at  Ball's  Bluff,  Va. 

5.  Colonel  Noah  L.  Farnham,  died  from  wounds,  Bull  Run,  Va.  (1861). 

6.  Captain  Eugene  Kelty,  killed  at  Baton  Ro'uge,  La. 

7.  Lieutenant  Silas  A.  Miller,  killed  at  Gettysburg,  Pa. 

8.  Sergeant  Gordon  S.  Phipps,  killed  at  Bristow  Station,  Va. 

9.  Lieutenant  D.  Van  Postley,  killed  at  Donaldsonville,  La. 

Third  Company  (C). 

10.  Lieutenant-Colonel  Robert  McD.  Hart,  killed  at  Cedar  Oeek,  Va. 

11.  Lieutenant  John  A.  Baker,  died  in  the  United  States  service,  Fort  Federal 

Hill,  Md. 

12.  Captain  Frederick  Hurst,  died  from  wounds,  Charleston,  S.  C. 

13.  Captain  IJ.  G.  Radcliffe,  killed  at  Murfreesboro',  Tenn. 

14.  Captain  Samuel  G.  Mulligan,  died  in  the  United  States  service,  Elizabeth, 

N.  J. 

15.  Lieutenant  W.  R.  Tremaine,  died  in  the  United  States  service,  New  York. 

Fourth  Company  (D). 

16.  Colonel  Alford  B.  Chapman,  killed  at  the  Wilderness,  Va. 

17.  Captain  Edward  A.  Harrison,  killed  at  Bull  Run,  Va.  (1862). 

18.  Colonel  James  E.  Mallow,  killed  at  Bristow  Station,  Va. 

19.  Lieutenant  James  E.  Moies,  died  in  the  United  States  service,  New  Or 

leans,  La. 

20.  Captain  Samuel  H.  Starr,  died  in  the  United  States  service,  Vicksburg, 

Miss. 


492  HISTORY    OF   THE   SEVENTH   EEGIMENT. 

Fifth  Company  (E). 

21.  Lieutenant-Colonel  Thomas  J.  Addis,  died  from, wounds  in  the  United 

States  service. 

22.  Captain  George  W.  Bissell,  died  in  the  United  States  service. 

23.  Sergeant  Augustus  Fleet,  killed  at  Fair  Oaks,  Va. 

24.  Lieutenant  William  H.  Kingsland,  died  at  Andersonville,  Ga. 

25.  Captain  George  W.  Lewis,  dit-d  from  wounds,  garrison's  Landing,  Va. 

26.  Lieutenant  Henry  N.  Timolat,  killed  in  the  Shenandoah  Valley,  Va. 

27.  Lieutenant-Colonel  George  Tucker,  died  in  the  United  States  service,  New 

Orleans,  La. 

Sixth  Company  (F). 

28.  Captain  Henry  Arnold,  killed  at  Olustee,  Fla. 

29.  Captain  Edward  A.  Cowdrey,  mortally  wounded  at  Five  Forks,  Va. 

30.  Captain   Asher  M.  Ellsworth,  died  in  the  United    States   service,  Port 

Hudson,  La. 

31.  Captain  Henry  W.  Hicks,  mortally  wounded  at  Port  Hudson,  La. 

32.  Major  Lindley  M.  H.  Miller,  died  in  the  United  States  service,  New  York, 

June,  1864. 

33.  Colonel  Robert  G.  Shaw,  killed  at  Fort  Wagner,  S.  C. 

34.  Lieutenant  Charles  J.  Smedberg,  died  in  camp,  near  Falmouth,  Va. 

35.  Lieutenant  Frederick  A.  Tracy,  died  in  the  United  States  service,  New 

York,  June  3,  1862. 

36.  Lieutenant  Charles  F.  Van  Duser,  killed  at  Gaines's  Mills,  Va. 

37.  Lieutenant  James  II.  Van  Nostrand,  died  a  prisoner  of  war  at  Lynchburg, 

Va. 

Seventh  Company  (G). 

38.  Lieutenant  A.  S.  Bogert,  died  from  wounds,  Fair  Oaks,  Va. 

39.  Captain  Louis  C.  Lent,  killed  at  Fort  Wagner,  S.  C. 

40.  Captain  Fitz-James  O'Brien,  died  from  wounds,  Blooming  Gap,  Va. 

41.  Captain  George  A.  Morey,  died  in  United  States  service,  Harrison's  Land 

ing,  Va. 

42.  Lieutenant-Colonel  George  H.  Stevens,  killed  at  Gettysburg,  Pa. 

43.  Captain  William  J.  Williams,  killed  at  Fair  Oaks,  Va. 

44.  Private  William  E.   Schenck,  drowned  in   United   States  service,  New 

York  Harbor. 

Eighth  Company  (H). 

45.  Private  J.  Lawrence  Keese,  killed  in  United  States  service,  Washington, 

D.  C. 

46.  Captain  S.  A.  Mellick,  died  in  the  United  States  service,  Fortress  Monroe,  Va. 

47.  Adjutant  Lewis  O.  Parmelee,  killed  at  Antietam,  Md. 

Ninth  Company  (I). 

48.  Major  Theodore  Winthrop,  killed  at  Great  Bethel,  Va. 
49    Captain  William  Wheeler,  killed  at  Gulp's  Farm,  Va. 
50.  Sergeant  Fordred  Draysen,  killed  at  Cold  Harbor,  Va. 


ROLL,  OF   HONOR.  493 

Tenth  Company  (K}. 

51.  Lieutenant  Milnor  Brown,  killed  at  Gettysburg,  Pa. 
52    Adjutant  Charles  A.  Gadsen,  killed  at  Carnden,  N.  C. 

53.  Captain  J.  Henry  Plume,  killed  at  Manassas,  Va 

54.  Major  Clifton  K.  Prentiss,  died  from  wounds,  Petersburg,  Va. 

55.  Captain  Henry  A.  Sand,  killed  at  Antietam,  Md. 

56.  Captain  Robert  Seabury,  killed  at  Spottsylvania,  Va. 

57.  Captain  Wright  Staples,  killed  in  the  Wilderness,  Va. 

58.  Private  Edward  B.  Welles,  died  in  United  States  service,  Baltimore,  Md. 


Total  number  of  members  of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  N.  G.  S.  N.  Y.,  who 
served  as  officers  in  the  Regular  and  Volunteer  Army  and  Navy  of  the  United 
States  during  the  Great  Rebellion  :  — 

Company  A 43 

B  80 

"         C        .  57 

D 42 

E 54 

F 97 

"         G        .         .         .         . 64 

"         H  65 

"I 42 

"         K  j62 

Total 606 

Number  of  members  of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  N.  G.  S.  N.  Y.,  who  were 
killed  or  died  of  disease  or  wounds  in  the  United  States  service  during  the 
Great  Rebellion,  58. 


APPENDIX. 


I.    THE  MARCH   TO  WASHINGTON. 

Report  of  Colonel  Lefferts  to  the  Adjutant-  General's  Office, 
in  accordance  iviih  General  Order  Number  10,  May  13,  1861. 

SIR,  — In  compliance  with  General  Order  Number  10,  I  have  the  honor  to 
submit  the  following  report :  — 

The  regiment  under  my  command  forms  part  of  the  First  Division  of  New 
York  State  troops,  of  New  York  City.  We  left  New  York  April  19th,  at  six 
o'clock,  P.  si.,  by  cars,  provided  by  the  United  States  Quartermaster's  Depart 
ment,  and  arrived  in  Philadelphia  about  3.30  o'clock,  A.  M.,  20th  April,  when 
I  was  informed  we  could  not  go  farther  by  rail.  At  5.20  o'clock,  A.  M.,  I 
telegraphed  the  Honorable  Secretary  of  War. 

I  received  no  answer  to  the  despatch,  and  the  information  given  me  hav 
ing  been  confirmed,  that  no  transportation  could  be  had  south  of  Havre  de 
Grace,  or  certainly  not  south  of  Baltimore,  I  chartered  the  steamer  Boston, 
at  twelve  o'clock,  M.,  which  was  about  ready  to  sail  for  New  York.  I  had  her 
cargo  taken  out,  coaled,  provisioned,  &c.,  embarked  my  command  and  sailed 
at  four  o'clock,  p.  M.,  same  day.  Not  finding  any  government  vessel  at  the. 
mouth  of  the  Potomac,  and  without  any  information  as  to  the  state  of  affairs 
in  Virginia,  I  deemed  it  prudent  and  best  to  go  to  Annapolis,  where  I  could 
take  position  and  assist  in  making,  by  the  way  of  Perrysville,  a  military  base 
line  connecting  the  North  and  East  with  the  capital. 

We  arrived  at  Annapolis  Monday  morning,  April  22d,  about  daylight.  We 
did  not  land  until  five  o'clock,  p.  M.,  having  been  a  part  of  the  day  endeavor 
ing  to  hail  the  steamer,  with  General  Butler  and  command  on  board,  off  the 
sand-bar. 

We  landed  under  protest  of  the  Mayor  and  committee  of  citizens  of  the 
city. 

We  remained  at  Annapolis  until  daylight,  24th  April.  The  cause  of  this 
detention  was  the  want  of  food  for  the  march ;  also  ammunition,  of  which  we 
had  but  ten  rounds,  and  especially  the  want  of  one  or  two  wagons  to  accom 
pany  the  march,  for  sick  and  wounded  and  which  could  not  be  procured  even 
at  an  exorbitant  price.  I  marched  with  my  command  for  nineteen  hours, 
mending  railroad  track  as  we  progressed,  carrying  rails,  spikes,  &c.,  &c.,  for 


496  APPENDIX. 

the  purpose,  on  one  platform-car  pushed  by  hand.  We  also  had  two  other 
platform-cars,  —  one  for  sick  and  wounded,  the  other  mounted  with  twelve- 
pound  howitzer,  ammunition,  grape  and  canister.  These  were  also  pushed  by 
hand.  We  arrived  within  one  and  a  half  miles  of  the  Junction  at  daylight  of 
the  25th,  where  we  halted,  sending  two  detachments  forward  to  secure  the 
depot  and  keep  open  the  communication  with  the  main  body.  From  the  Junc 
tion  we  were  brought  on  by  cars,  arriving  in  Washington  on  the  25th  April, 
twelve,  noon,  and  were  quartered  in  the  Capitol  in  the  Hall  of  Representatives, 
where  we  remained  until  the  afternoon  of  the  2d  May,  when  we  pitched  our 
tents,  by  directions  from  head-quarters,  at  this  place,  Mount  Pleasant,  and 
named  our  camp  Camp  Cameron. 

By  import  this  morning,  our  aggi-egate  is  eleven  hundred  and  fifty-six  men. 

We  have  eight  infantry  and  two  flank  companies. 

We  have  rifle  muskets  for  the  eight  companies  and  sword-bayonet  rifles  for 
the  two  flank  companies. 

We  have  about  thirty  rounds  of  ammunition  per  man.  I  consider  the  com 
mand  in  a  good  state  of  drill,  and  the  evolutions  are  according  to  Hardee, 
excepting  the  manual,  which  is  Scott's,  or  Infantry  of  the  Line. 

Some  of  my  companies  have  been  drilled  as  skirmishers. 

The  whole  regiment  commenced  target-practice  on  Saturday,  May  llth, 
at  seventy-five  yards,  and  the  result  of  the  first  day's  practice  was  fifty- 
five  hundredths  hits,  target  twenty-two  and  seventy-two  inches. 

The  bayonet-exercise  has  not  been  taught  generally.  The  regiment  have 
camp  equipage  for  one  thousand  men. 

The  organization  of  the  Quartermaster's,  Commissary,  and  Medical  De 
partments  are  efficient. 


H.    THE  MARYLAND   CAMPAIGN. 

Colonel  Lefferts's  Official  Report. 

NEW  YOKK,  January  4,  1863. 
GENERAL  WM.  HALL,   Commanding  Third  Brigade. 

SIR,  —  Incompliance  with  your  instructions  to  report  in  reference  to  the 
last  campaign  of  my  regiment,  I  would  state  that  my  orders  having  come  direct 
from  head-quarters  at  Albany,  and  upon  and  subsequently  to  my  arrival  at 
Philadelphia  having  been  entirely  detached  from  your  brigade  and  attached  to 
the  Third  Army  Corps  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  — Major-General  French 
commanding,  —  I  made  my  report  in  Novemher  last  -to  the  Adjutant-General 
at  Albany ;  but  hereto  append  a  copy,  which  I  suppose  will  meet  your  wishes. 
I  am,  sir,  your  obedient  servant, 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,   Colonel  Commanding. 


APPENDIX.  497 

NEW  YORK,  November  1,  1863. 
J.  T.  SPRAGUB,  Adjutant-General. 

SIR, —  I  have  the  honor  to  report  that  on  the  morning  of  the  16th  June 
I  received  the  following  telegram  :  — 

ALBANY,  June  15,  7.15  o'clock,  p.  M. 
To  COLONEL  MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Seventh  Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  N.  G. 

The  Governor  desires  to  know,  immediately,  how  soon  the  Seventh  Regiment 
can  be  in  readiness  to  move  to  Philadelphia. 
Cannot  the  Seventh  be  the  first  regiment? 

J.  B.  STONEHOUSE,  A.  A.  Adjutant- General. 

As  I  was  absent  from  the  city  I  did  not  receive  this  despatch  until  the  next 
morning  at  ten  o'clock,  when  I  answered  as  follows  : — 

NEW  YORK,  June  16,  10  o'clock,  A.  M. 
J.  B.  STOREHOUSE,  A.  A.  General,  Albany. 

Have  just  arrived  in  this  city,  and  have  your  telegram.  I  presume  I  can 
move  with  my  regiment  this  evening.  In  order  to  carry  full  complement  of 
men,  it  is  necessary  that  I  should  be  able  to  state  to  them  definitely  the  time 
they  will  be  required  to  be  absent ;  and  it  will  be  difficult  for  them  to  remain 
any  length  of  time,  leaving  on  such  short  notice.  Can  they  volunteer  without 
being  mustered  into  the  service  of  the  United  States "? 

M.  LEFFERTS,   Col.  commanding  Seventh  Regiment. 

To  which  I  received  the  following  answer  :  — 

ALBANY,  June  16,  10.55  o'clock,  A.  M. 
To  COLONEL  M.  LEFFERTS. 

The  Governor  directs  that  you  proceed  forthwith  with  your  regiment  as  full 
as  possible  to  Harrisburg,  Pennsylvania,  and  report  to  Major-General  Couch. 

They  volunteer  for  not  to  exceed  three  (3)  months'  service,  most  likely  not 
more  than  thirty  (30)  days  will  be  required. 

Requisition  for  transportation  will  be  made  upon  Major  Yan  Vleit,  Xo.  6 
State  Street,  and  for  subsistence  upon  Colonel  A.  B.  Eaton,  7  State  Street. 

JOHN  T.  SPRAGUE,  Adjutant- General. 

Upon  receipt  of  this  telegram,  my  orders  for  assembly  of  the  officers  and 
men  was  promulgated,  and  requisition  made  for  transportation  to  be  in  readi 
ness,  and  should  have  taken  our  departure  ;  but  General  Hall,  who  did  not 
know  of  my  order  to  move  immediately,  went  to  the  armory  and  detained  the 
men  until  the  following  morning,  —  of  which  I  promptly  advised  you  by 
telegraph. 

At  an  early  hour  on  the  morning  of  the  17th  June,  we  left  the  city,  via, 
Amboy,  with  a  total  of  men,  but  in  consequence  of  delays  on  the  road 

did  not  reach  Philadelphia  until  late  in  the  afternoon. 

At  this  poiut  I  was  requested  to  report  to  Colonel  Ruff,  U.  S.  A.,  command- 
32 


498  APPENDIX. 

ing  at  Philadelphia,  who  informed  me  that  I  should  proceed  to  Baltimore,  in 
conformity  to  the  following  order  : — 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  PHILADELPHIA,  PA.,  June  17,  1863. 
To  COMMANDING  OFFICER,  Seventh  Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  M. 

SIR, —  You  will  proceed  without  delay  to  Baltimore,  Md.     Report  on  the 
arrival  of  your  regiment  to  Major-General  Robert  Schenck,  U.  S.  V.,  com 
manding  that  military  department.     Transportation  is  provided  for  your  regi 
ment  via  the  Philadelphia,  Wilmington,  and  Baltimore  Railroad. 
By  command  of 

MAJOR-GENERAL  HALLECK,  General-in-Chief. 
C.  S.  RUFF,  Lieutenant- Colonel,  Third  Cavalry,  U.  S.  A.,  commanding  Philadelphia. 

Although  I  held  your  order  to  proceed  to  Harrishurg,  I  could  not  doubt  you 
would  desire  m«  to  go  where  there  was  the  most  need  of  my  services,  and  at 
once  marched  my  regiment  forward,  sending  you  the  following  notification  of 
the  change :  — 

PHILADELPHIA,  Midnight,  June  17,  1863. 
J.  T.  SPRAGUE,  Adjutant- General. 

I  have  received  orders  from  Major-General  Halleck  to  proceed  to  Baltimore, 
and  am  now  in  the  cars  ready  to  leave  for  that  city.  I  presume  this  will 
receive  the  sanction  of  the  Governor. 

M.  LEFFERTS,  Colonel  commanding  Seventh  Regiment. 

Upon  arrival  at  Baltimore,  I  reported  to  Major-General  Schenck,  and  was 
ordered  on  duty  in  the  city  for  that  night  and  following  day,  when  we  were 
directed  to  relieve  the  One  Hundred  and  Twenty-Ninth  Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  V., 
Colonel  Porter,  at  Fort  Federal  Hill.  We  remained  at  that  post  until  the  3d 
July,  during  which  time  we  were  actively  engaged  on  outpost  and  other  duty, 
being  frequently  reduced  to  one  hundred  and  fifty  men  in  the  fort. 

On  the  5th  July  we  were  ordered  to  report  to  General  Briggs,  and  proceed  to 
Frederick,  Md.,  in  light  marching  order,  leaving  tents,  knapsacks,  and  baggage 
behind.  This  order  was  received  during  the  night,  and  although  two  of  our 
outposts  were  distant  nine  and  twelve  miles  respectively,  they  were  called  in, 
and  the  regiment  moved  from  the  fort  at  eight  o'clock,  A.  M.,  in  a  drenching 
rain. 

At  Monocacy  Junction  we  were  detained  some  time,  awaiting  the  decision 
of,  I  believe,  Major-General  Meade,  whether  the  troops  then  on  the  road  should 
go  to  Harper's  Ferry ;  finally,  we  received  orders  to  march  to  Frederick  City. 
By  order  leaving  two  detachments  for  duty  near  that  city,  the  regiment  went 
into  camp  on  the  road  to  Harper's  Ferry.  We  were  here  assigned  to  duty  in 
the  Third  Army  Corps,  Army  of  the  Potomac.  On  the  9th  July,  by  the  fol 
lowing  order,  I  assumed  command  of  Frederick,  relieving  General  French,  who 
was  ordered  to  the  command  of  the  Third  Army  Corps  :  — 


APPENDIX.  499 


SPECIAL  ORDER  No.  24. 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  FREDERICK  CITY,  July  8,  1863. 

II.  Colonel  Lefferts,  Seventh  Regiment  N.  Y.  S.  M.,  is  detailed  on  special 
duty  in  Frederick  City.     Colonel  Lefferts  will  make  such  arrangements  for 
guarding  the  depots,  and  for  the  police  required  for  the  city,  as  he  may  deem, 
necessary. 

III.  Major  H.  A.  Cole,  Maryland  Cavalry,  will  report  to  Colonel  Lefferts 
for  instruction. 

IV.  The  battalion,  Fourteenth  Massachusetts  Heavy  Artillery,  under  Major 
Rolfe,  now  on  duty  at  Monocacy  Junction,  will  be  relieved  by  a  detachment 
from  the  Seventh  Regiment,  New  York ;  after  which,  Major  Rolfe  will  report 
to  these  head-quarters  in  person. 

By  order  of    MAJOR-GENERAL  FRENCH. 

Monocacy  Junction  was  made  the  grand  depot  for  the  Army  of  the  Poto 
mac,  and  a  large  portion  of  the  army  was  then  moving  through  Frederick  to 
South  Mountain,  Hagerstown,  and  pressing  the  Rebel  Army  to  WilKamsport. 
Our  duties  were  active,  and,  I  trust,  faithfully  performed.  On  July  14  I 
received  the  following  order,  at  four  o'clock,  p.  M.  Called  in  the  various 
detachments,  and  marched  to  Monocacy  Junction. 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  FREDERICK,  July  14,  1863. 
COLONEL  LEFFERTS,  Commanding  Seventh  Regiment,  N.  Y.  S.  N. 

SIR,  —  Major-General  Hallcck  directs  that  the  Seventh  Regiment,  N.  Y.  S. 
M.,  be  sent  to  New  York  by  railroad,  to  report  to  Major-General  Wool.  You 
will  please  to  take  immediate  measures  to  carry  out  the  order. 

EDWARD  SCHRIVER,  General  Commanding. 

I  had  already  been  notified  by  telegraph  of  the  disgraceful  riot  in  New  York 
city,  and  upon  receipt  of  the  foregoing  order  made  all  haste  in  its  execution. 
Detachments  were  called  in,  and.  notwithstanding  the  roads  were  very  heavy 
from  a  three  days'  storm,  we  reached  Monocacy  Junction  in  four  and  a  half 
hours  from  the  time  I  received  the  order  at  Frederick  City.  I  had  sent  one  of 
my  staff  to  the  Junction  to  explain  the  necessity  of  the  transportation  being 
ready,  but  I  regret  to  say  we  did  not  leave  the  Junction  until  11.45  o'clock, 
p.  M.,  and  from  this  hour  until  daylight  of  the  16th  July  wenvere  on  the 
road. 

Receiving  from  his  Excellency  the  Governor  an  intimation  that  the  rails 
would  Jae  taken  up  at  or  near  Newark,  and  my  regiment  probably  attacked, 
which  circumstance  might  delay  my  arrival  in  New  York  City,  and  the  press 
ing  necessity  for  our  presence,  I  succeeded,  with  the  assistance  of  Colonel  E. 
S.  Sandford,  in  arranging  with  the  authorities  to  transport  the  regiment  via 
Amboy,  landing  at  Canal  Street.  I  marched  up  Broadway  to  the  head-quar 
ters  of  Major-General  Wool,  at  St.  Nicholas  Hotel,  and  reported  for  duty.  I 


500  APPENDIX. 

was  directed  by  the  General  to  proceed  to  the  regimental  armory  and  remain 
in  readiness  for  immediate  service.  At  ten  o'clock,  A.  M.,  I  reported  to  his 
Excellency  the  Governor  that,  in  consequence  of  the  order  directing  us  to  leave 
all  baggage  behind  upon  our  departure  from  Baltimore,  to  join  the  Army 
of  the  Potomac,  —  then  moving  upon  Hagerstown,  Md., — my  men  were  en 
tirely  destitute  of  extra  clothing ;  and  had  not  at  the  time  of  their  arrival  in 
New  York  changed  their  underclothing  for  a  period  of  eleven  days, — during 
which  time  they  had  also  been  without  even  shelter-tents. 

At  three  o'clock,  p.  M.  of  the  same  day  I  received  the  following  order :  — 

ORDERS. 

NEW  YORK,  16th  July,  1863. 

Colonel  Lefferts,  of  the  Seventh  Regiment,  New  York  State  Militia,  will 
proceed  and  take  station  with  his  regiment  as  follows  :  — 

His  head-quarters  with  one  battalion  at  the  Eighteenth  Precinct,  and  one 
battalion  under  command  of  the  senior  field  officers  at  the  Twenty-First  Pre 
cinct,  —  the  Colonel  commanding  both.  He  is  charged  with  suppressing  all 
mobs  and  riots,  and  will  sternly  use  all  means  he  has  in  doing  so. 

His  district  extends  from  Seventh  Street  to  Sixty-Fifth  Street,  and  he  will 
make  such  further  distribution  of  his  regiment  as  he  may  think  proper.     He 
will  continue  in  that  district  until  he  receives  further  orders,  and  will  make 
frequent  reports  to  these  head-quarters. 
By  command  of 

Brev.  Brig.-Gen.  HARVEY  BROWN. 

JOHN  B.  FROTHINGHAM,  Lieut.-CoL  A.  D.  C.  U.  S.  A. 

Upon  its  receipt  I  at  once  marched  my  command  into  the  district  indicated, 
making  my  head-quarters  at  the  Police  Station,  Thirty-Fifth  Street,  two  doors 
from  the  Third  Avenue.  , 

Although  we  were  fired  upon  during  the  march,  and  in  some  cases  shots 
returned,  yet  I  knew  of  no  casualties.  After  dark  my  detachments  of  observa 
tion  were  continually  annoyed  by  shots  from  the  houses  and  other  places  of 
concealment.  At  ten  o'clock,  P.  M.,  I  directed  a  detachment  of  four  compa 
nies,  and  a  battery  of  two  pieces  under  command  of  Captain  Rogers,  Com- 
pa,ny  I,  to  pass  through  the  district  under  command  of  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Price,  as  low  down  as  Fourteenth  Street.  This  was  promptly  executed. 

I  herewith  subjoin  my  report  of  the  following  morning. 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  TWENTY-FIRST  POLICE  PRECINCT,  17th  <fuly. 
GENERAL  HARVEY  BROWN,  Police  Head-quarters. 

SIR,  —  I  have  the  honor  to  report  the  district  under  my  charge  as  quiet  after 
12  o'clock,  P.  M.  I  was  obliged  to  use  harsh  measures  during  the  evening,  but 
hope  we  shall  have  no  further  trouble. 

In  obedience  to  orders,  a  thorough  patrol  of  the  district  between  Thirty- 


APPENDIX.  501 

Fifth  Street  and  Fourteenth  Street,  Third  Avenue,  and  East  River,  was  made 
last  evening  after  10  o'clock,  p.  M. 
None  of  my  men  were  injured. 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Colonel  commanding  Seventh  Regiment. 

During  the  night  of  the  16th  I  was  informed  of  several  depositories  of  arms 
in  the  custody  of  the  moh,  and  accordingly,  on  the  morning  of  the  11M:h,  I  pro 
ceeded  with  my  whole  force  to  Thirty-Eighth  Street  and  Second  Avenue,  and 
by  surrounding  the  block,  the  houses  were  searched.  This  I  continued  from 
square  to  square,  toward  Fourteenth  Street,  aided  by  a  platoon  of  police  under 
charge  of  Acting  Captain  Blacket,  who  rendered  efficient  service. 

Some  two  hundred  and  fifty  arms  (many  of  them  loaded  and  capped)  were 
secured,  and  considerable  clothing,  which  had  been  stolen  from  the  store  of 
Messrs.  Brooks. 

At  2  o'clock,  p.  M.,  of  this  day,  I  received  orders  from  head-quarters  to  return 
to  the  armory. 

On  the  afternoon  of  the  18th  I  was  obliged,  by  indisposition,  to  give  the 
command  to  Lieutenant-Colonel  Price. 

From  this  period  the  regiment  remained  on  duty  without  anything  material 
to  note. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  sir,  your  obedient  servant, 

MARSHALL  LEFFERTS,  Colonel  Commanding. 


THE    END. 


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